Letters to Fong

About the Author

Denise is a local community member who writes to our representative every day of the week. She also sends copies of the same message to our senators. She spends a lot of time researching topics and often uses multiple credible sources to support her letters. She does not expect others to agree with her personal views. Denise’s goal in sharing the letters is to inspire other members of the community to share their OWN views with our legislators about the topics, preferably after reading the actual reporting of the issues, rather than her interpretation.

Her approach to research

Denise first looked at a variety of different media bias charts, such as from Ad Fontes Media, Harvard Library Research, etc., to help select media outlets with a wide range of perspectives. She encourages the community to take a look at these charts as a preliminary step to ensure a healthy outlook on the topics. The cornerstone of democracy is a free and reliable press. We tend to read media with which we agree, so it helps to broaden “the net” to develop an understanding of the divisiveness that has permeated our nation. This approach also allows one to recognize when nearly every media outlet is reporting an event with the same descriptors/facts and only one or two are consistently outliers and in complete disagreement, that the latter outlets may be in need of serious fact checking.

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Table of Contents

Week of January 18th

Trump Threatens Increased Tariffs on Countries That Disagree With His Greenland Plans

Mr. Fong:

CNN reported that Trump announced the US will impose new tariffs if a deal is not reached for the US purchase of Greenland. A 10% tariff on “any and all goods” from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland will be imposed starting February 1 and will increase to 25% on June 1 until an agreement is reached. Trump posted on Truth Social, “We have subsidized Denmark, and all of the Countries of the European Union, and others, for many years by not charging them Tariffs, or any other forms of remuneration. Now, after Centuries, it is time for Denmark to give back –World Peace is at stake!” Trump also warned that the deployment of military personnel to Greenland created “a very dangerous situation for the Safety, Security, and Survival of our Planet.” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen indicated that he had a constructive meeting with JD Vance and Marco Rubio earlier in the week, so the president’s reaction was surprising. In reference to the NATO military exercises in Greenland last week which showed support for Denmark, Rasmussen said, “We agree with the US that we need to do more since the Arctic is no longer a low-tension area. That’s exactly why we and NATO partners are stepping up in full transparency with our American allies.” It is unclear if the 10% tariff will be added to what the European nations are already paying. EU lawmakers called for a suspension of the trade agreement it had reached with the US last year. Normally, tariffs are under jurisdiction of Congress, but Trump will use executive order to impose the additional tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which he has been using to levy tariffs to bend countries to his will. The Supreme Court will rule whether Trump has authority to use these emergency powers in the weeks to come. The law makes no mention of tariffs. If Trump is unable to use this Act, he has other laws at his disposal, but they limit the scope and length of time that they can be used. The limitations may not allow him to use tariffs as a device to pressure other countries to get what he wants. European leaders said these tariffs are “unacceptable” and they are prepared to respond in a coordinated manner. The leaders said that threats have no place among allies, and that differences should be resolved through discussion, not pressure. The EU has called an emergency meeting of ambassadors from the EU’s 27 countries. Thousands of protesters demonstrated in Greenland and Denmark over Trump’s threats to take Greenland, many carrying signs that say, “Yankees go home” and “Greenland is already great.” One protester said, “We have seen what (Trump) does in Venezuela and Iran. He doesn’t respect anything. He just takes what he thinks is his…He misuses his power.” The delegation of US legislators that are in Denmark this weekend expressed their respect for the indigenous people of Greenland, trying to diffuse the anger aroused by Trump’s statements. Senate Minority Leader Schumer said that Senate Democrats will introduce legislation to block the tariffs “before they further damage to the American economy and our allies in Europe.” Republicans are also expressing their disagreement. Republican Rep Don Bacon of NE said Trump’s threats are “shameful” and that because “Greenland is part of NATO’s umbrella,” the president has what he needs to put more bases there. According to a CNN poll, three-quarters of Americans are opposed to the US taking control of Greenland. I am opposed to Trump’s attempts to take yet another sovereign territory and to his outrageous treatment of our allies.

Injustice and Civil Rights

Mr. Fong:

The Trump administration has worked diligently to cloud truth and confuse the public to gain trust and power. The great civil rights leader, Reverand Martin Luther King, Jr., whom we honor today, said in 1947, “Education must enable one to sift and weigh evidence, to discern the true from the false, the real from the unreal, and the facts from the fiction.” At this difficult time when the Trump administration rolls back our hard-fought civil rights, works to erase the concept of diversity, equity, and inclusion in our very diverse society, denies equal access to basic needs, and defies the rule of law, we look for strength and inspiration from Martin Luther King, Jr. While jailed in solitary confinement in Birmingham, Alabama in April 1963 for participating in non-violent anti-segregation demonstrations, Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote the following, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” We will continue to educate the public and stand against injustice through non-violent protest, just as this noble man did.

Legislation Introduced to Restrain Political Appointees to be Nominated for Inspecter General Positions

Mr. Fong:

ABC News reported that Senator Tammy Duckworth introduced legislation this week, The Inspector General’s Independence Act, which would bar the current and future presidents from nominating political appointees who serve or who have served in their administration from serving as an Inspector General. Inspector Generals are supposed to be independent and to be able to monitor activity in various departments of government, assuring that partisan leanings and corruption are not undertaken. THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION UNILATERALLY DISMISSED 17 INSPECTOR GENERALS IN VARIOUS AGENCIES AT THE BEGINNING OF TRUMP’S SECOND TERM. At that time, both Republican and Democratic legislators raised concerns about the impact that these firings would have on partisanship and the independence of the positions. Lawsuits were filed in the courts and are still underway which are assert the firings were illegal. Senator Duckworth’s legislation, as she explains it, “will make it very clear that what he did was illegal, and not just leave it to the courts to interpret existing law.” As an example of why this legislation is needed, Senator Duckworth states that Cheryl Mason was confirmed as Inspector General of Veterans Affairs. She had been serving as a senior advisor to Trump’s Veterans Affairs Secretary at the time of her nomination. Democrats spoke up about Ms. Mason’s ability to serve as an independent watchdog for an agency in which she had served as a political advisor. Ms. Mason claimed she was impartial and would provide information in a nonpartisan manner. Although some Republicans raised concerns about her ability to remain independent, all Republicans voted to confirm her. The legislation is being co-sponsored by Democratic Senators Dick Durbin, Richard Blumenthal, Adam Schiff, Kirsten Gillibrand, and Peter Weich. Currently, no Republicans have stepped up to co=sponsor. Will the legislation have enough support to pass through the chambers of Congress, and will Trump sign it into law? Fair legislation that keeps everyone honest is what is needed now MORE THAN EVER, especially during an administration that has done its best to avoid fairness and rule of law.

Trump’s Speech at Davos World Economic Forum

Mr. Fong:

We observed today, along with the rest of the world, Trump’s rambling, shameful speech in Davos, Switzerland at the World Economic Forum in which he insulted and bullied numerous state leaders, criticized and minimized the importance of NATO, lambasted former President Biden, and exaggerated and outright lied about the economic strength of our country. Trump ruled out using military force to takeover Greenland, but he made it clear to those countries who object to making Greenland (which he called “Iceland” several times during the speech) a part of the United States, that they would face repercussions, most likely through tariffs. Trump threatened, “You can say ‘yes,’ and we will be very appreciative, or you can say ‘no’ and we will remember.” He announced that his plan for Greenland is to build a missile defense system (Golden Dome). European leaders understood that although the threat of military action to take Greenland is off the table for now, tariffs are a war in their own right. Although some sort of agreement that has not yet been disclosed has been reached to appease Trump, the world understands the enormous impact this day has had on world order. Our more than 80-year alliance with Europe has been “ruptured” and we will stand alone, despite the fact that most Americans still hold the values and integrity that these allied democratic nations continue to embrace. The American people were not consulted on this dramatic pivot that Trump has been threatening for our nation, and we will not be able to restore our relationships and the trust that had been built over the years with our European partners long after Donald Trump is gone from our political landscape. As citizens, we feel betrayed and mischaracterized on the world stage and ashamed of the president’s lack of understanding of our history. We also understand that in addition to the destruction of our national character, Trump has weakened our economic future. This is a very sad day in American history.

Former Justice Department Special Counsel Jack Smith’s Open Congressional Hearing

Mr. Fong:

The Associated Press reported former Justice Department special counsel Jack Smith’s congressional hearing at which time Mr. Smith defended his investigations of Donald Trump and stood by the criminal charges that he brought against the president. “No one should be above the law in our country, and the law required that he be held to account. So that is what I did,” Smith said. He revealed he collected ample evidence to indict Trump in separate cases that accused him of conspiring to overturn the 2020 presidential election after he lost to Joe Biden, and of hoarding classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida after he left the White House. “Our investigation developed proof beyond a reasonable doubt that President Trump engaged in criminal activity. If asked whether to prosecute a former president based on the same facts today, I would do so regardless of whether that president was a Republican or a Democrat.” Republicans attacked Smith as an overly aggressive prosecutor. They were particularly critical of subpoenaed phone records of a group of Republican lawmakers around the time of the Jan 6, 2021 storming of the Capitol. Smith indicated that he gathered the incoming and outgoing calls and the duration of the calls, but not the content. The investigation of the calls was relevant to the case because Trump and his surrogates were contacting members of Congress to pressure them to delay the certification of the 2020 election. Smith explained that “collecting phone records is a common prosecutorial tactic and essential in this instance to help prosecutors understand the scope of the conspiracy.” He described a wide-ranging conspiracy to overturn the results of the election and indicated Trump would not listen to advisors who told him the election was valid. Smith indicated the most important witnesses in the case were fellow Republicans who had campaigned and voted for Trump and wanted him to win. One of the most powerful statements of the hearing was when Smith said, “I believe that if we don’t call people to account when they commit crimes in this context, it can endanger our election process, it can endanger elections workers, and ultimately, our democracy.” Committee Chairman Jim Jordan of Ohio tried to say the investigation was purely political, stating, “We should never forget what took place, what they did to the guy we, the people elected twice.” Ironically, Jordan was admitting in his statement that Trump won TWICE, the 2016 and the 2024 elections, not the THREE elections Donald Trump professes he won, which was the basis of his attempt to overturn the 2020 election. Trump went on to try to silence and intimidate potential witnesses against him. Smith reminded Jordan and Rep Ben Cline of VA that although Trump’s campaign was underway, and Smith was being accused of hindering Trump’s free speech by issuing a court order to prohibit him from making incendiary comments about witnesses in the case, speech used for criminal purpose is not protected under free speech. Because the investigation of the classified document case has not been released by Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon, a discussion could not ensue about details of that case. The American public has every right to hear the evidence of these two cases. Even if we cannot have the satisfaction of justice being served since the cases did not go to trial, documenting the criminal behavior of the president and all those who supported and continue to support his criminal behavior for posterity is crucial for the future of our nation.

Trump DOJ Opens Investigations on Minnesota Governor and Minneapolis Mayor

Mr. Fong:

According to NPR, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have been added to DOJ opened investigations, adding to the LONG LIST of individuals (from Protect Democracy and ABC News) against whom the president seeks revenge: Jerome Powell, Mark Kelly, Kat Abughazaleh, John Bolton, Lisa Cook, Adam Schiff, James Comey, John Brennan, Brad Lander, Alex Padilla, David Huerta, Letitia James, LaMonica McIver, Ras Baraka, Honorable Hannah Dugan, Chris Krebs, Miles Taylor, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, Eric Swawell, Jack Smith, Chris Christie, Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Kamala Harris, Hunter Biden, Ashley Biden, Mike Pompeo, Brian Hook, Mark Milley, Anthony Fauci, Anthony Blinken, Lisa Monaco, Mark Zaid, Norman Eisen, Alvin Bragg, Andrew Weissmann, Hillary Clinton, Liz Cheney, Adam Kinzinger, Fiona Hill, Alexander Vindman, Kimberly Cheatle, James Clapper, Michael Hayden, Leon Panetta, Thomas Fingar, Richard Ledgett, Michael Morell, Michael Vickers, Douglas Wise, Nicholas Rasmussen, Russell Travers, Andrew Liepman, John Moseman, Larry Pfeiffer, Jeremy Bash, Rodney Snyder, Glen Gerstell, David Buckley, 50 former intelligence officials associated with Hunter Biden laptop probe, 37 former intelligence leaders associated with assessment of Russia’s attempt to influence the 2016 election, Law Firms: Covington & Burling, Perkins Cole, Jenner & Block, Milbank, WilmerHale, Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, Paul Weiss Rifkind Wharton & Garrison, Willkie Farr & Gallagher, and JP Morgan Chase and CEO Jamie Dimon. The extensive list contains names that have received much media attention, and others who are less known because they are either civil servants who were merely doing their jobs to investigate Trump, or critics of the president. Governor Walz and Mayor Frye were issued grand jury subpoenas in a probe alleging that Minnesota officials conspired to impede law enforcement during the government immigration crackdown. Mayor Frey accuses the federal government of weaponizing its power to intimidate local leaders. Minnesota protestors are out in great numbers to express their dissatisfaction with the manner in which ICE raids have been conducted, often with brutality and violence, terrorizing their communities and taking immigrants away without due process. Community leaders, businesses, and residents are also responding to the unnecessary fatal shooting of a 37-year-old protester, Renee Good, earlier this month and the manner in which the case has been treated. No investigation is being conducted of the agent who fired three shots at Ms. Good at close range as she attempted to drive away. The president dismissed the shooting saying, “They’re going to make mistakes. Sometimes ICE is going to be too rough with somebody, or you know, they’re dealing with rough people.” Minnesota Attorney General Ellison brought a lawsuit against the Trump administration over ICE’s operations in the region just before Governor Walz and Mayor Frey were issued subpoenas. Under the Trump administration, we are witnessing historic erosion of the rule of law.

Another American Citizen Killed by ICE in Minnesota

Mr. Fong:

The NYTimes reported that videos of another fatal shooting by ICE agents in Minneapolis this morning contradict federal accounts of the killing. Secretary Noem’s narrative about the incident does not accurately match the video that Americans have widely seen of the shooting, in which Secretary Noem characterizes Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an intensive-care nurse and American citizen, as a domestic terrorist. Secretary Noem indicated he was a threat to the lives of the agents because he approached them with a handgun with intent to “massacre” them, warranting his shooting. NYTimes analysis of the video shows he was holding a phone, not a gun. Mr. Pretti was pushed to the ground and then shot while being restrained by numerous ICE agents. Minnesota officials are pleading with the Trump administration to remove ICE from their communities because rather than making the state safer, they are instigating violence against its residents during aggressive federal immigration enforcement. Mayor Frey is asking a federal judge to order an end to the immigration operation and has a court hearing scheduled for Monday. Minnesota officials deployed the National Guard in an effort to restore calm among angry residents who renewed protests as a result of yet another senseless killing. State officials are asking Minnesota Congressional Republicans to join Democrats in condemning the violence and to refuse to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Democrat Senator Tina Smith of MN said, “All Americans should be outraged. If it can happen here, it can happen in your community too.” As we watch the authoritarian tactics of the Trump administration unfold, Senator Smith’s warning should be heeded.

Week of January 11th

Trump Administration Restricts Congress from Inspecting ICE Facilities

Mr. Fong:

CBS News reported that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is again restricting members of Congress, whose job is oversight of ICE detention facilities, from entering the facilities. Members of Congress were supposed to be able to show up WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE to inspect the conditions in these facilities. In doing so, they would be able to observe and provide an accurate assessment of the conditions that detainees must endure while being held by DHS. A court order blocked DHS officials from restricting oversight visits AND PROHIBITED THE USE OF DHS FUNDS TO BLOCK CONGRESS. However, on January 8, a new policy was issued and submitted on Saturday, January 10 in federal court, indicating members of Congress must schedule any visits to ICE facilities seven days in advance. Exemptions to this rule must be approved by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who issued the new order. ADDITIONALLY, FUNDS TO BLOCK CONGRESS WOULD COME EXCLUSIVELY FROM MONEY APPROPRIATED BY THE “BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL,” not from regular appropriations, thus circumventing the court order. The Bill infused an unprecedented amount of funding for immigration enforcement, including $75 billion to ICE alone, to support deportation efforts and increase detention capacity. Noem justified the new policy saying she is protecting ICE detainees and employees as well as lawmakers and their staff. Over the weekend, Democratic Minnesota Representatives Ilhan Omar, Angie Craig, and Kelly Morrison were denied entry to an ICE facility in Minneapolis. We have already read numerous reports of deplorable conditions in ICE detention facilities with inadequate food, water, medical care, sanitation, family contact, and legal services. Without oversight, we must assume that the cruelty, disrespect, and mistreatment that ICE agents employ while apprehending immigrants, undocumented as well as legal, continue inside the facilities. Congress MUST HAVE UNANNOUNCED ACCESS to oversee these facilities and minimally assure humane and legal treatment of detainees.

Funding ICE’s Inhumane and Illegal Treatment Questioned

Mr. Fong:

The Hill reported that Dem Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy is criticizing the manner in which the Trump administration is handling ICE operations. Although domestic enforcement of immigration law is important, the tactics used by ICE are undisciplined, disrespectful, inhumane, and illegal. ICE generally is not being held accountable for arresting and detaining peaceful and legal immigrants. No one wants to fund a law enforcement entity that is rogue and irresponsible. The fatal shooting (three times) of a woman in Minneapolis by an ICE agent and the judgmental response of DHS Secretary Kirsti Noem about the victim and the involved officer have been stunning. Numerous video clips that dispute Secretary Noem’s rendition of the event during which time she characterizes the victim as a “domestic terrorist” and defends the excessive response of the officer that caused her death PRIOR TO A PROPER INVESTIGATION have angered the public and resulted in protests across the nation. When comparisons are presented of Jan 6 rioters who severely battered law enforcement officers (and who were pardoned by Trump his first days in office), and the protestor in Minnesota, members of the Trump administration argue that each case is unique and must be judged accordingly. The stark differences of the demeanor and behavior of those involved in the two scenarios are remarkable! The American people are not buying the flimsy and irrational narratives of Trump officials. On ABC News, Minnesota Senator Tina Smith said, “I think what we are seeing here is the federal government, Kristi Noem, Vice President Vance, Donald Trump attempt to cover up what happened here in the Twin Cities. And I don’t think that people here and around the country are believing it.” I am not able to believe a narrative that conflicts with what I see. As a member of Congress whose job is to hold the executive branch accountable, what is your assessment of the conduct of ICE?

Some Events in History Should NEVER Be Repeated

Mr. Fong:

“Terrible things are happening outside. Poor helpless people are being dragged out of their homes. Families are torn apart. Men, women, and children are separated. Children come home from school to find that their parents have disappeared.” – DIARY OF ANNE FRANK, January 13, 1943. I am greatly saddened to report that although written eighty-three years ago to date, this writing could aptly describe communities in the United States of America today.

Federal Prosecutors Resign Over Investigation of Shooting Victim AND NOT IF THE SHOOTING WAS LAWFUL

Mr. Fong:

The NYTimes reported that SIX FEDERAL PROSECUTORS in Minnesota resigned or accelerated their retirements over the decision of the Justice Department to INVESTIGATE THE WIDOW of the shooting VICTIM killed by an ICE agent for her ties to neighborhood protest groups AND NOT TO INVESTIGATE THE SHOOTER. Included among those resigning is Stanford-educated and 17-year career prosecutor Joseph H. Thompson, the second in command at the US attorney’s office. He was overseeing the broad fraud investigation that has been in the Minnesota political spotlight in recent years and was also involved in the investigation of former President Biden for keeping classified documents in his residence when his term as vice president ended. Prosecutors chose to resign when they were pushed to investigate the widow of the shooting victim, Renee Nicole Good, but were not included in investigating if the shooting itself was unlawful. Mr. Thompson’s resignation is a blow to the ongoing fraud investigation of schemes to cheat safety net programs. The majority of the defendants charged in the fraud cases are American citizens of Somali origin. The Trump administration used that fact for its immigration crackdown and recent increased ICE presence. The head of DOJ’s Civil Rights Division announced that an investigation WOULD NOT BE OPENED to determine if the ICE agent violated federal law. Renee and Becca Good had stopped after dropping off their son at school to support their neighbors who were under threat by ICE agents. Blowing whistles, neighborhood residents alert their neighbors of ICE presence. Becca explained, “We had whistles; they had guns.” Mr. Thompson originally planned to investigate the shooting in partnership with the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, an agency that reviews police shootings. Immigrant rights groups have criticized ICE for stopping residents based on their looks and accents. The stops often lead to violent arrests of immigrants and American citizens. The community is outraged and Minnesota’s attorney general along with the mayors of Minneapolis and St. Paul filed a lawsuit, alleging that ICE is engaged in abuses and civil rights violations. Trump has used the situation to demean Somali Americans, whom he calls “garbage.” The increased ICE operation had become a distraction which actually undermined the fraud investigation. Governor Walz called Mr. Thompson “a principled public servant who spent more than a decade achieving justice for Minnesotans. It’s also the latest sign Trump is pushing nonpartisan career professionals out of the justice department, replacing them with his sycophants.” Mr. Thompson has charged more than 90 people since 2022 of which 60 have been convicted. His resignation is an enormous loss to law enforcement. This unjust incident is yet another blow to the rule of law.

GOP Lawmakers Speak Against DOJ and Federal Reserve Investigation

Mr. Fong:

NBC News reported that the number of Republicans in the Senate have spoken AGAINST the Justice Department’s subpoenas of the Federal Reserve, warning that the probe could undermine the central bank’s independence. Senator Lisa Murkowski of AK said, “if the Department of Justice believes an investigation into Chair Powell is warranted based on project cost overruns – which are not unusual –then Congress needs to investigate the Department of Justice.” Senator Murkowski added, “The stakes are too high to look the other way. If the Federal Reserve loses its independence, the stability of our markets and the broader economy will suffer.” Senator Thom Tillis of NC, a member of the Banking committee, vowed to block Fed nominees, including the Fed Chair vacancy. He also called the credibility of the Department of Justice into question. Because the committee is comprised of 13 Republicans and 11 Democrats, Senator Tillis could stall Trump’s nominees if he sides with Democrats. Senate Majority Leader Thune of SD indicated the allegations “better be real, and they better be serious.” Both Senators Cramer of ND and McCormick of PA said they do not believe that Chairman Jerome Powell is guilty of criminal activity. Senator John Kennedy of LA does not believe that Powell has done anything wrong and he said that interest rates will go up if the executive branch and the Federal Reserve “get into a pissing contest.” Senator Susan Collins of MA, also on the Banking Committee, said she believes strongly in the independence of the Federal Reserve and that Jerome Powell is “a person of integrity.” House Financial Services Committee Chair French Hill of AR described Powell as “a person of the highest integrity” and expressed that the subpoenas could make future monetary policy decisions difficult. Senator Hill’s committee oversees the Federal Reserve, the Treasury Department, and the Securities Exchange Commission. Even Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed that he sees the investigation as “an unnecessary distraction.” Republicans seem to realize, as one unnamed Republican lawmaker source said in a text, “Our leadership and admin just keep doubling down on stupid.” House Majority Speaker Johnson, however, agreed that the DOJ is “doing their job.” He refused to give his personal opinion on the matter. A DOJ spokesperson declined to comment but said Pam Bondi instructed her DOJ team “to prioritize investigating any abuse of taxpayer dollars.” THE FEDERAL RESERVE IS NOT FUNDED THROUGH TAXPAYER DOLLARS. How refreshing it is to hear so many Republicans offer their honest opinions rather than parrot the president’s absurd retributive and authoritarian rhetoric! Are some of the Republicans in the Senate actually revealing a hint of backbone and rational thinking? Do I see a glimmer of oversight from the Republican members of the once co-equal branch of government? Well, golly…!

Threatening a NATO Ally

Mr. Fong:

The Hill reported that Senate Republicans are vowing to block efforts by Trump to seize Greenland by military force. Trump continues to threaten to take control of the Denmark autonomous territory, even when VP Vance and Secretary of State Rubio met with top diplomats this week. Because the US is still a member of NATO and Greenland is part of the NATO alliance, the rational of taking the territory from one of our allies eludes us all. By threatening military action to take Greenland, Trump is also threatening our 80+-year NATO alliance. Republican Senators Thom Tillis of NC and Lisa Murkowski of AK, Democratic Senators Chris Coons of DE, Jeanne Shaheen of NH (ranking member of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee), and Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin of IL, along with Democratic Reps Gregory Meeks of NY (ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee), Madeleine Dean of PA, and Sarah Jacobs of CA will travel to Denmark today to assure the prime minister of Denmark that legislators, including Republicans, would oppose military force. Senator Tillis is only now reminding us that “we have coequal branches of government” and that he believes that a sufficient number of members would stand in the way of the president’s outrageous plan. Ironically, we did not see this opposition from Republicans when Trump recently took Venezuela. Tillis said there is more “pushback by Republicans senators on this topic.” He added, “We absolutely need NATO support of Ukraine. Diminishing the capabilities of NATO to do that is a death knell to people in Ukraine.” Perhaps, that is the answer to why Trump would even consider such an outrageous idea. Ending our alliance with NATO would give Putin a huge advantage in his war on Ukraine. CBS News reported that Putin commented on the Trump administration’s disagreement with NATO and on NATO’s “course of accelerated militarization of the North…under the fictitious pretext of a growing threat from Moscow and Beijing.” He added that the inability of the bloc to reach agreements is “increasingly unpredictable” and “extremely dangerous.” A Reuters/Ipsos poll released this week found that only 17 percent of Americans would support a US takeover of Greenland. Only 4 percent agreed with taking Greenland by force, and 66 percent were concerned that attempts to buy Greenland would damage US relations with our European allies. Trump continues to sow chaos, disrupting global order and making us all feel less safe.

California Defies Trump’s Decision Regarding Free Park Admission for MLK Day

Mr. Fong:

SFGATE reported that Governor Gavin Newsom will offer free admission at more than 200 state parks in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, despite the president’s halt of free admission to national parks for this federal holiday and also for Juneteenth Day which commemorates the end of slavery. Instead, Trump made June 14, Flag Day, which is not a federal holiday but is his birthday, a free admissions day. The NAACP also condemned the Trump administration’s decision to stop free entry for these holidays, saying that it is an attempt to minimize Black resilience and erase Black history. The state of California was able to raise private funds to offset the cost of granting free vehicle entry to the parks through the California State Parks Foundation, which is an independent, nonprofit advocacy group for the parks. Newsom said, “While Trump works to erase Dr. King’s legacy, California will honor it.” I applaud Governor Newsom for honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in this way.

Week of January 4th

Trump’s Takeover of Venezuela Sets Precedent for Authoritarians Across the Globe

Representative Fong:

The BBC reported that Trump’s use of brute military force to capture Venezuela’s president and his wife and to take over and “run” the country until the US can issue a “judicious transition,” while threatening to put “boots on the ground,” sets a dangerous precedent worldwide. The International Crisis Group warned that the fall of President Maduro would lead to violence and instability in the country. The United States has a terrible record of attempting to achieve regime change in various countries in the past 30 years. As a student of political science, you know, Rep Fong, what follows the initial military operation is crucial for the outcome of regime change. Trump did not seem to have much of a plan for what is to follow in the Venezuelan case, saying that Marco Rubio will “run” the country in the interim. He has no real plan for the country’s governance, other than to have the existing VP Delcy Rodriguez serve as acting president and do the bidding of the US. Of Nobel Peace Prize recipient and Venezuelan opposition leader to Maduro, Maria Corina Machado, Trump said, “I think it’d be very tough for her to be the leader; she doesn’t have the support…She doesn’t have the respect.” He made no mention of Edmundo Gonzalez, who is believed to be the rightful winner of the 2024 elections. The Venezuelan armed forces supported Maduro and will not likely accept US decisions, and Maduro’s civilian supporters were armed by the regime while they enriched themselves through corruption networks. Marco Rubio will have his hands full managing the chaos that will likely ensue for Venezuela’s 30 million people, and “boots on the ground” will likely be necessary as time goes forward. TRUMP NEVER MENTIONED SUPPORTING DEMOCRACY IN THE REGION. He spoke mainly of seizing oil and having American companies rebuild infrastructure to support that process, being more concerned with the US being reimbursed for oil that he believes is owed. Trump DOES HAVE AMBITIOUS PLANS to dominate the entire Western hemisphere, however, citing the Monroe Doctrine of 1823 which he now calls the “Donroe Doctrine.” He issued warnings to Columbia, Mexico, and Cuba. Having already set his sights on Greenland, Trump may eventually look north to take that region over for its strategic position and natural resources. INTERNATIONAL LAW establishes agreed rules that Trump is ignoring. China condemned US action in Venezuela, but Xi may eventually decide that if the US can get away with violating international law, he could forcefully take control of Taiwan which he views as a breakaway province. Putin has already violated Ukraine’s sovereignty and may follow Trump’s example to attack other European nations. Trump’s actions regarding Venezuela may be just the beginning of a series of events that will create a very unstable and dangerous world. That is not the world most of us envision for our future.

Attack and Takeover of Venezuela Consumes American Thought

Mr. Fong:

I cannot address you with the title of “Representative” today because you are not representing me or even trying to represent me. You praised the president for the capture and arrest of the illegitimate leader of a sovereign nation, expressing your pride of this decision for our nation and for our military expertise. Our military is certainly a source of pride, but it should be used judiciously in the defense of our nation, not for months of strategic planning to meddle in the governance of an opposing nation with the express purpose of giving the president unbridled force to dominate the Western hemisphere and its resources. We are no longer a government “BY THE PEOPLE” because our government representatives do not stand for the people’s values, opinions, or desires for the direction of the country. Between 63 and 70% of our country was opposed to military action in Venezuela. Rather than assert the WAR POWERS ACT, our legislators bow to the irrational and often inexplicable motives of a tyrannical leader, who did not win a majority of the popular vote. That is the reason we are in this shameful situation. And it will not end here. Trump threatens more aggression. Without Congress and the American people standing up to him, he will continue to tarnish our reputation and disgrace the nation. That is YOUR legacy, Mr. Fong. That is what history will say about this complete turn of our country from a supporter of democratic principles to an autocracy, a country in which the executive branch makes unilateral decisions about our future with no regard for the general citizenry. History has shown that the US was involved many times in influencing other nations for our own best interests and in some cases going so far as to become involved in or even instigating war. For example, with the invasion of Iraq we were clearly in violation of the United Nations Charter. No country is exempt from faults and poor decisions. Rather than learn from past mistakes, however, Trump lied to Congress and to the American people about this latest action of forcible capture of a head of state, saying it was not an invasion of a sovereign nation, but simply an act of “law enforcement” to seek justice for President Maduro’s involvement in drug trafficking. Yet, for the past several months, more than 100 Venezuelans were murdered for allegedly VIOLATING THE LAW by transporting drugs, A CRIME THAT IS NOT A CAPITAL OFFENSE. NO EVIDENCE WAS PROVIDED AND NO EFFORTS WERE MADE FOR DUE PROCESS, the foundations of our legal system. The president tried a different argument – that removing the corrupt leader of Venezuela would BENEFIT THE VENEZUELAN PEOPLE. However, no change has been made to the ruling party of Venezuela. Maduro’s cabinet members are still in their positions, his VP is acting-president, and absolutely nothing changes for the Venezuelan people. If Venezuelans who were opposed to Maduro’s presidency express joy about his removal, they will experience harsh repercussions under the continued repressive regime. Trump is in Venezuela for ONE REASON, for control of Venezuela’s oil reserves. So, Mr. Fong, by praising the removal of corrupt Maduro, you are disrespecting your constituents for painting this military action as something that it was not. We know that waiting for you to stand in the way of Trump’s future military aggression is futile. Your role in Congress is useless if you fail to uphold the Constitution and persist in not defending the rule of law.

January 6, 2021 Insurrection Remembered

Mr. Fong:

PBS News reported that today is the fifth anniversary of the Jan 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol (most of us do not need a reminder). A PLAQUE HONORING THE 3,600 POLICE OFFICERS who defended the democratic process of certifying the 2020 election by standing up to a violent mob IS NOT ON DISPLAY AT THE CAPITOL, although it was approved by Congress in March 2022. House Speaker Johnson has not unveiled the plaque, and the DOJ is in process of dismissing a lawsuit brought by police officers asking that the plaque be displayed as intended. The Capitol Architect said he cannot comment on the plaque because of the ongoing litigation. To preserve the nation’s history, about 100 members of Congress created the plaque to memorialize that shameful day. The plaque expresses gratitude to the brave police who kept members of Congress safe from a violent crowd that was threatening to hang the vice president and physically harm other members of Congress. Although the Republican Speaker at the time called the event an insurrection and the GOP House leader called it “the saddest day” in Congress, Republicans are now trying to change history and sanitize and minimize the significance of the day. The president refers to Jan 6 as a “day of love” because those storming the Capitol were encouraged by him and his repeated lie that he won the election. Douglas Brinkley, a professor of history at Rice University, asks the important question, “Will January 6 be seen as the seminal moment when democracy was in peril?” At least five people died in the riot and the days following it, including Trump supporter Ashli Babbitt, who was fatally shot by police when she broke through a window toward the House chamber where congressional members had barricaded themselves, fearful for their lives. Trump told his agitated supporters that they would lose their country if they did not fight for it and that he would accompany them to the Capitol. The mob shouted vile slurs, defecated in the halls, carried Confederate flags, and wielded objects to use as weapons such as poles and bear spray. More than 140 law enforcement officers were wounded, some seriously, and several died. In the end 1,500 people were charged in the Capitol attack which was one of the largest federal prosecutions in the country’s history. In 2025, when Trump returned to power, he PARDONED ALL OF THEM in his first hours in office. Despite the Republican efforts to keep truth from gracing the halls of the Capitol, I believe the plaque to commemorate the bravery and heroism of those officers will eventually find its way there. Many accounts have been published describing that terrible day, and we watched the events unfold in televised media with our own eyes. Just as we remember other tragic events in our nation’s history, we will NEVER FORGET the horrors of that shocking day, the fears we felt for the future for our democratic system, and the disgust surrounding the injustice that the insurrectionists, although convicted by our justice system, were not held accountable for their actions as a result of the president’s pardon.

Trump’s Bold Move on Greenland

Mr. Fong:

The Washington Post reported that the Trump administration is actively seeking to seize Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark for more than 300 years, threatening military action. European leaders warned that Washington needs to respect the borders of Greenland. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the increased rhetoric is part of a strategy to pressure Denmark into selling Greenland to the US. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that a US move on Greenland would threaten the future of the NATO defense alliance. The leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Britain, and Denmark declared that “the inviolability of borders” is a universal principle and that “Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland.” Perhaps, Trump’s aggression on Greenland is a pretense for an end to the US alliance with NATO. Any move on Greenland could result in war between the US and its longtime NATO Allies, a scenario that is difficult to imagine because of its preposterous nature. As a member of NATO, if the US can still call itself a member after Trump’s abominable behavior, the US has the access to Greenland that is afforded through that relationship, including a defense agreement. Greenland has 57,000 residents and conducts its own economic and domestic policies, while Denmark is responsible for its security and foreign policies. Denmark increased spending on Arctic security by $13.7 billion in 2025 and committed to additional increases in the coming years. Trump recently appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a US special envoy to Greenland in his attempt to split Greenland from Denmark. Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller’s wife posted an image of a US flag superimposed over a map of Greenland with the word “soon” after the US invasion of Venezuela this week. I AM OPPOSED TO THIS AGGRESSIVE POSTURING ON GREENLAND, TO VIOLATIONS OF OUR NATO ALLIANCE, AND TO TRUMP’S EFFORTS TO IMPOSE HIS WILL OVER THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE AND BEYOND BY USING OUR MILITARY MUSCLE AND HIS DISRUPTION OF FREE TRADE. HE HAS NO LEGAL RIGHTS TO ACT AGAINST SOVEREIGN NATIONS. HE DOES NOT HAVE SUPPORT FROM THE AMERICAN PEOPLE FOR THIS AGGRESSION. THE PRESIDENT SHOULD KEEP HIS POWER-HUNGRY HANDS OFF THIS TERRITORY AND ALL OTHERS. I DO NOT want my TAX DOLLARS to be used for this ABSURD military action against Greenland or for its purchase TO BOOST THE INSATIABLE EGO OF DONALD TRUMP! Greenland is crucial for defense of the Arctic region, and we should be working cooperatively with our Allies to protect the region.

ICE Shoots and Kills a Minnesota Citizen

Mr. Fong:

The Associated Press reported the deadly shooting of a Minnesota woman by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer. The 37-year-old woman and mother of three, Renee Nicole Good, was shot in the head south of downtown Minneapolis. Numerous video recordings of the incident were provided by bystanders. An officer approached the woman’s vehicle which had stopped in the middle of the road, and she was told to move. Another officer demanded that she open the car door and he grabbed the door handle. Ms. Good began to drive forward, appearing to attempt to leave the scene, and a different officer standing at the front of the vehicle pulled out his weapon and fired several shots into the vehicle at close range. The officer did not appear to be struck by the vehicle, but Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kristi Noem depicted the woman as a “domestic terrorist” (with no evidence) who threatened the life of the ICE officer, saying he shot her in self-defense. Secretary Noem’s description of the incident was clearly in contradiction to the video footage captured of the situation. The earliest report from Secretary Noem indicated that the officer had been run over by the woman, and that he was consequently hospitalized. CBS News reported that Illinois Representative Robin Kelly is filing articles of impeachment against the DHS Secretary, saying that she has “turned ICE into a rogue force, violating the Constitution, tearing families apart, and leaving death in her wake…From Chicago to Minneapolis, her recklessness cost lives, including Renee Nicole Good. This isn’t just dangerous –it’s impeachable. I’m fighting back.” We have all witnessed numerous recorded violations of ICE officers using excessive force against undocumented immigrants as well as against US citizens in the past year. The misinformation that the DHS spreads to mislead the public is unacceptable and Secretary Noem needs to be held accountable for distorting the events. A similar situation unfolded against Villegas Ganzalez and 31-year-old Marimar Martinez, who was shot by Border Patrol agents after they blocked agents’ vehicles last fall. A grand jury indictment against Martinez was brought for attempting to kill a federal agent. However, the charges were dropped a few weeks later. In a similar situation in Chicago, a 38-year-old undocumented father Silvero Villegas-Gonzalez was fatally shot after dropping his children off at school. Again, the Trump administration lied about what actually transpired. The Department of Homeland Security must be restrained from committing these atrocities.

Response to Letter from Representative Fong on Venezuelan Invasion

Mr. Fong:

Your letter to me in which you provide the rationale for the invasion of Venezuela as “transnational drug trafficking” makes no sense, considering that Trump recently pardoned the president of Honduras, Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was serving a 45-year prison sentence following his conviction for decades of drug trafficking and weapons charges. Hernandez was notorious for accepting bribes from drug lords to allow 500 tons of cocaine to pass through Honduras for the United States. As president, Hernandez maintained a flourishing drug trade over several decades, making Honduras one of the most corrupt and violent countries in Central America. Numerous reports indicate that Venezuelan President Maduro is equally corrupt. However, considering Trump’s pardon of Hernandez for the same offense as the president of Venezuela, Trump’s reasoning for invading Venezuela and capturing Maduro for drug trafficking is nonsensical. No regime change is underway to eliminate the drug trade entrenched in the Chinese-cultivated ”illegitimate authoritarian government,” as you called it, or its repressive, undemocratic practices. Despite your constant efforts to claim your loyal support by justifying Trump’s decisions, you will never be successful at convincing your constituents with these irrational arguments. The president has proven to be a compulsive liar whose decisions are frequently illogical or contrary to the principles and values of most Americans. How unfortunate that you sully your reputation as a representative by always expressing your support of the president, no matter how farfetched or detrimental his “executive actions” are, and by never exercising your congressional “oversight role.” You expend much of your talent and energy in this way, rather than by serving the American people. Everyone makes choices in life, and you are clearly making yours.

Smithsonian Removes Trump Impeachment Text and Replaces His Photo

Mr. Fong:

The Washington Post reported that the National Portrait Gallery in the Smithsonian replaced a prominent photograph of President Trump this week while removing text that described two impeachments and the January 6, 2021 insurrection. The image now portrays a back-and-white photo of Trump staring intently with his fists on the Resolute Desk, a photo that Trump shared on his Truth Social account last year. The text that accompanied the previous photo, one with his hands folded in front of him, described Trump’s first term and his reelection, “Impeached twice, on charges of abuse of power and incitement of insurrection after supporters attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, he was acquitted by the Senate in both trials.” The description also mentioned Trump’s Supreme Court appointments, his 2020 election loss to Biden, and his efforts that led to the development of the coronavirus vaccines. A Trump official complained about the text at the time that the president was attempting to replace the Portrait Gallery’s director. The new text is so short that the outline of the previous placard is visible on the wall. It only notes Trump’s years in office, and contrasts with the other previous presidents placards whose events and accomplishments during their presidencies are described. Clinton’s description contains mention of his impeachment. The Smithsonian and the White House would not respond to questions about whether the Trump administration requested the changes. Remarkably, these changes took place the week of the fifth anniversary of the January 6, 2021 insurrection. Trump complained about former Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet and threatened to withhold funding if the institution did not cooperate with the Trump administration’s view of museum content having “improper ideology,” which eventually led to her resignation. A notice on the Smithsonian’s website indicates that the National Portrait Gallery will temporarily close from April 6 to May 14, but it did not mention if the placards for the other presidents will change during that time. I AM OPPOSED to the political interference of Trump in designing the displays at the Smithsonian and in rewriting history for the millions of people who visit the museum each year. The purpose of a museum is to preserve history, not to alter, erase, or invent it.

Week of December 21st

Senate Demands Congress Stop Trump’s Efforts to Dismantle Key Climate Agency

Representative Fong:

The Hill reported that a bill package of appropriations being negotiated prior to the holiday break was jeopardized by two Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper. The bill, if enacted into law would result in 85 to 90 percent of the federal government being funded through September 2026. The Senators are insisting that Congress work together to resolve the problem of the Trump administration’s (particularly Russell Vought’s) efforts to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research, the premier climate center based in Boulder, CO that provides scientific studies of weather patterns. These data are crucial for scientific analysis of weather patterns that impact life for everyone. Russell Vought wanted to cut 30 to 40 percent of the budget for the facility which Senator Whitehouse (D-RI) called a “global crown jewel of science.”

I commend Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper for recognizing the importance of agencies that further science and support data that save lives and inform economic decisions here and around the world.

Trump Defiles the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Representative Fong:

NBC news reported that last February Trump abruptly fired members of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts board and installed new members, including wife of Vice President JD Vance, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and advisors Dan Scavino and Sergio Gor, after naming himself chair. Weeks later, the new board officially elected Trump as board chair.

Trump has been opposed to diversity in the performances hosted by the Kennedy Center. He informed Pride organizers that they would no longer be able to host Pride gatherings at the facility. The new board installed by Trump voted to rename the center the Trump Kennedy Center. A spokesman for the arts center, Vice President of Public Relations for the center, Roma Daravi said, “The unanimous vote recognizes that the current Chairman saved the institution from financial ruin and physical destruction.”

Former Representative Joseph Kennedy III, the grandnephew of the late President Kennedy issued a statement saying, “The Kennedy Center is a living memorial to a fallen president and named for President Kennedy by federal law. It can no sooner be renamed than can someone rename the Lincoln Memorial, no matter what anyone says.” Niece of the late president, Kerry Kennedy said, “President Kennedy proudly stood for justice, peace, equality, dignity, diversity and compassion for those who suffer. President Trump stands in opposition to these values, and his name should not be placed alongside President Kennedy’s.”

Rep Beatty, D-Ohio, who was an ex-officio member of the board disputed that the vote for the name change was unanimous. She said her voice was muted during the call and she was not allowed to speak in opposition to this move. Daravi said in rebuttal to Rep Beatty’s complaint that, “The entire board was invited to attend in person and the privilege of listening in on the meeting was granted for all members, even those without a vote, such as ex-officio member Joyce Beatty.” The renaming of the center was not on the agenda provided to the board members before the meeting and the renaming will certainly face legal hurdles. The original laws during the creation of the Kennedy Center specifically prohibited renaming the building. It would require an act of Congress to change it now. Six Democratic lawmakers issued a joint statement saying, “Federal law established the Center as a memorial to President Kennedy and prohibits changing its name without Congressional action.” Nevertheless, workers added Trump’s name above the Kennedy Center’s existing sign and the website was updated with the new name.

Additionally, Representative Mike Simpson, R-Idaho, introduced an amendment to name the building’s opera house after Melania Trump. Newsweek reported that Maryland Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen vowed to reverse the renaming in an amendment on the appropriations bill early next year. I agree wholeheartedly with Senator Van Hollen. Trump is not an ally of the arts. He canceled the National Endowment for Arts (NEA) grants earlier this year. He does not respect diversity in the art world. Adding his name has been nothing more than one more means to assuage his seriously damaged ego. Trump is unfit to lead and represent the Kennedy Center and placing his name on the building is offensive.

Republican Senator Rand Paul Warns Seizure of Venezuelan Oil Tankers Is Prelude to War

Representative Fong:

ABC News reported that Republican Senator Rand Paul was critical of Trump’s military actions in the Caribbean regarding Venezuelan oil tankers, saying they are “a provocation and a prelude to war.” Senator Paul also announced that he is against blowing up Venezuelan boats and killing unarmed people under suspicion of drug smuggling. He expressed the contradiction of Trump using drug trafficking as reasoning for destroying these vessels, yet he pardoned former president Juan Orlando Hernandez of Honduras who was convicted of narcotics deals and was serving a sentence of 45 years. Senator Paul pointed out the inconsistency of the Trump administration accepting that “some narco-terrorists are really OK and other narco-terrorists we’re going to blow up.” Rarely do Republican members of Congress speak truth to power and express disagreement with Trump’s policies. I am encouraged when those members of Congress, who have remained silent while the Trump administration repeatedly broke laws and norms, finally recognizes the irrational and illegal actions of this administration and begins to restore oversight.

The Hill reported that Republicans are divided over whether the president should use military pressure to oust Venezuelan President Maduro. The majority of Senate Republicans agree with the blowing up of Venezuelan vessels that are suspected of drug smuggling, even when in violation of international law and national sovereignty. However, some Republicans warn that pushing for regime change could backfire. They are opposed to land strikes and putting “boots on the ground.”

Trump has circumvented Congress in his aggressive military decisions by declaring war himself against terrorists and is now including the Venezuelan government as a terrorist organization. The US Coast Guard has seized two Venezuelan oil tankers, while the US Navy is building massive naval forces in the Caribbean, seemingly to put pressure on President Maduro. However, Secretary of Defense Hegseth and Secretary of State Rubio reported in a congressional briefing last week that regime change is not the goal of the administration. Senator Paul has joined with a group of Senate Democrats to block US armed forces from engaging in hostilities against Venezuelan without authorization from Congress. Only two Republicans in the House, Nebraska Rep Don Bacon and Kentucky Rep Thomas Massie voted in favor of a resolution to stop hostilities against presidentially designated terrorist organizations without congressional approval. The risk of entering another war is high and no plans seem to have been developed about what will be done if Maduro is forced out.

Trump Required to Restore Disaster Funds to Democratic States

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reported that a federal judge has halted the Trump administration’s attempt to reallocate federal Homeland Security funding away from states that refuse to cooperate with harsh federal immigration policy which denies due process to immigrants during their apprehension and detention. A group of twelve attorneys general sued the administration earlier this year when their states were notified that their federal grants would be reduced due to their “sanctuary” jurisdictions.

The Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reduced more than $233 million from Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. These funds were part of a $1 billion program from which allocations would be based on risk assessment, with states passing on the funds to law enforcement and fire departments.

Withholding disaster funds from states by the federal government for their failure to cooperate on immigration enforcement is unconstitutional. The federal government used no rational formula for reducing the funding but did so in an arbitrary manner. The judge stated, “Defendants wanton abuse of their role in federal grant administration is particularly troublesome given the fact that they have been entrusted with a most solemn duty: safeguarding our nation and its citizens.” The judge cited as an example of the vital role of this funding the recent attack on Brown University students, where a rigorous law enforcement response to the mass shooting of students, which left two dead, was essential. Withholding funding based on political whims is unlawful. Punishing states for not supporting Trump’s cruel immigration agenda is unconscionable. I applaud the courts which stand firm against the unfair and unlawful policies of this administration.

Louisiana Governor Assigned as Envoy to Greenland

Representative Fong:

The New York Times reported that Trump appointed the governor of Louisiana, Jeff Landry, as special envoy to Greenland, much to the surprise of residents of both Louisiana and Greenland. Although Governor Landry will remain in Louisiana, his new responsibilities regarding Greenland are unclear. Trump has stated in the past that he would like to take over Greenland which is a Danish semiautonomous territory.

Governor Landry has no experience in foreign affairs, but he is a Trump loyalist. He has encouraged the president to pursue taking over Greenland and incorporating it into the United States for its strategic importance and mineral resources.

A Greenlandic politician serving in the Danish Parliament posted on social media that Mr. Landry is welcome to visit, but Greenland is not for sale. Reuters reported that Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen adamantly stated that, “You cannot annex another country. Not even with an argument about international security. Greenland belongs to Greenlanders and the US shall not take over Greenland.” The Trump administration put pressure on Copenhagen by suspending leases for five large offshore wind projects being built off the US east coast, including two being developed by Denmark’s state-controlled Orsted. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said he would summon US Ambassador Howery who had pledged “mutual respect” during a recent visit.

Denmark has increased investment in Greenland for defense of the Arctic region, but it has had no effect on the US position. Governor Landry’s appointment as envoy to Greenland is in violation of Louisiana’s constitutional law which prohibits state officials from holding federal posts, full- or part-time, simultaneously. Governor Landry has argued that he will be serving as a volunteer and that the position will not distract from his role as governor. Even if the position is unpaid or purely symbolic, the law holds because the wording of the statute forbids holding a US appointive office alongside a Louisiana elective office. Obeying laws is not within the Trump administration purview.

I am opposed to the US behaving in a manner similar to Russia’s disrespect of Ukraine’s sovereignty. The US has no right to Greenland and Governor Landry has no right to serve as envoy with that ultimate goal.

Trump Halts Offshore Wind Projects

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that the Trump administration paused leases for five wind farms that are currently under construction off the east coast, halting the offshore wind industry in Trump’s irrational goal of diminishing sources of renewable energy. Investments in the wind farm projects value $25 billion and would provide power for more than 2.5 million homes and businesses across the eastern US while creating 10,000 jobs. These projects had received permits under the Biden administration. Trump cited unspecified national security concerns as rationale for freezing the leases, jeopardizing billions of dollars already invested. One of the projects is already operational and sends power from 62 turbines to the electric grid. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum released a statement saying, “The prime duty of the United States government is to protect the American people.” He stated national security risks and “vulnerabilities created by large-scale offshore wind projects with proximity near our East Coast population centers” as reason for the 90-day pause. Trump continues to call offshore wind turbines “ugly” since his failure to stop a wind farm that was visible from one of his golf courses in Scotland. The abrupt announcement has confused the east coast wind farm industry whose energy production is crucial for meeting the nation’s energy needs.

Wind farms were designed “in close coordination with the military” and two pilot turbines have operated for five years with no impact on national security. The projects underwent rigorous reviews by the Department of Defense. Jeremy Slayton, a spokesman for Dominion Energy, called the wind farm projects “essential for American national security” and said stopping the projects would threaten grid reliability “for some of the nation’s most important war fighting, A.I., and civilian assets.” The Interior Department says that an unclassified report from the Energy Department found that wind farms could interfere with radar systems. Even simple delays in the projects will cost the companies involved in their construction and operation millions of dollars, and thousands of workers will be impacted, hurting the economy. The five paused projects were estimated to save consumers money on their electric bills since the companies had negotiated contracts with utility companies to purchase the power at lower prices. Electricity demand is soaring because of the growth of data companies. The Trump administration has had legal setbacks in its previous efforts to shut down wind farms because of the “arbitrary and capricious” nature with which it violated federal law. Attorney General of Connecticut stated, “We went to court over this before. Every day this project is stalled is another day of lost work, another day of unaffordable energy costs, and another day burning fossil fuels when American-made clean energy is within reach.”

This decision is one more irrational and damaging choice of the Trump administration that harms our economy and the American people.

Kash Patel Purchases Fleet of Armored BMWs for $1 Million

Representative Fong:

MS Now reported that FBI Director Kash Patel recently purchased a fleet of high-end BMW X5s for his use, saying that the selection was less expensive than other vehicles that were considered and he would be less conspicuous in the BMW, according to four sources who spoke on condition of anonymity. Normally, FBI directors who are protected by a security detail are driven in a Chevrolet Suburban. FBI spokesperson Ben Williamson said, “Government agencies, including the FBI, routinely evaluate, replace and update vehicle fleets based on usage, security needs or budgetary decisions.” Director Patel also pressed the FBI to purchase a new, more modern jet for his use, but the purchase was abandoned over costs that reached between $90 million and $115 million.

Patel’s decisions on spending tax-payer dollars have been repeatedly criticized. He has been faulted for taking personal trips on the FBI’s Gulfstream Jet. Stacey Young, a former Justice Department official who founded a network of former DOJ employees called Justice Connection believes Patel has been more concerned about his public image than wasting public resources. Patel argues that he is a “steward of taxpayer dollars” and disputes claims from former employees about promoting personal image. He is the first FBI director to use the foreign-made BMW vehicles. The government has a contract with General Motors to provide Suburbans that are upgraded as needed to include security features. Patel occasionally rides in these vehicles, but he argues that the BMWs allow him to travel in a more covert manner. FBI staff assert that the cost of the upgraded Suburban is twice as expensive as the BMW brand and that vehicles from General Motors are contractually ordered in multiples, making the purchase very costly. Spokesman Williamson disputed this claim but failed to specify.

For an administration that touts itself as a champion of eliminating waste and fraud, Director Patel does not seem to be concerned with spending $1 million for a small fleet of vehicles that allows him simply to travel discreetly.

Week of December 14th

National Trust for Historic Preservation Sues Trump Over Ballroom Construction

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that The National Trust for Historic Preservation filed a federal lawsuit to stop Trump’s construction of an enormous ballroom on the White House grounds because of lack of review process. The lawsuit forces submission of the plans for the 90,000-square-foot structure to several entities and Congress for public review and input. Demolition has already begun. The suit states “No president is legally allowed to tear down portions of the White House without any review whatsoever –not President Trump; not President Biden; and not anyone else.” The president cannot construct on public property without giving the public an opportunity to comment. The Trump administration argues that the grounds are exempt from the National Historical Preservation Act, but lawyers for the National Trust for Historic Preservation maintain Trump is violating other sections of US Code. The National Trust for Historic Preservation was chartered by Congress to preserve America’s historic buildings. The suit states that no building or structure can be erected without the authority of Congress.

Trump has also violated the National Capital Planning Act, and laws governing the Commission of Fine Arts, the national Environmental Policy Act, and the Administrative Procedural Act. Plans should have been submitted prior to demolition, and no further work can be done until the legal process is followed. Trump says he does not have to follow permitting, zoning, or code requirements because the structure is on White House grounds and he has the final word. During his first administration, Trump sought approval for new fencing and a new tennis pavilion, so his current actions are contrary to what he knows is legal process. The National Trust for Historic Preservation wrote a letter to the White House to request that work cease, but the White House declined to respond. Therefore, the lawsuit was filed. The American People should have a say in such a major alteration to “the People’s House.”

Trump Administration Rushes to Finalize Tariff Payments to Avoid Possible Refunds

Representative Fong:

Politico and CNN reported that with the chance that the Supreme Court rules against the legality of Trump’s tariffs, companies who have had to pay the taxes are filing for refunds. The federal government has collected close to $90 billion from the tariffs that are being challenged as of September. The Trump administration is rushing to deposit the money it has raised to the US Treasury to make it more difficult for companies to secure refunds. Normally, Customs and Border Patrol grants a 314-day window after goods enter the US before importers must send the money to the Treasury Department. Once submitted, importers can no longer challenge the tariff payment without going through a complicated process. The Trump administration has implemented a strict schedule to “control the speed at which refunds are issued.” Requests for extensions have been denied. The refund process will be very difficult. In 1998 when importers were eligible for tariff refunds, it took two years for $730 million in tariff payments to be returned, a far smaller amount than is in question now. Lawsuits by more than 100 companies such as Costco and Bumble Bee are already being filed in anticipation of the court ruling that Trump overstepped his legal authority. An additional complication is that investment banks have brokered deals with importers who would sell their stake in a potential tariff at a discount in exchange for an immediate cash payment. If the Supreme Court sides with Trump, the banks would get a cut of the total tariff refund that the importer forfeited. Businesses would be able to receive a guaranteed payment, however smaller, without having to wait for the court rulings. Importantly, they would also avoid angering Trump because they would not have to file a public legal filing. In the end, Trump’s tariffs will hurt many businesses whether the court rules the tariffs illegal or not.

Fong Supports Local Defense Health and Child Care, While House Republicans Decide Not to Vote for Extension of ACA Subsidies

Representative Fong:

Thank you for securing funding through the National Defense Authorization Act for construction of a new child development center for employees at China Lake and for assessment of the healthcare programs provided for military and civilian employees at the Naval Air Weapons Station. This information was published on the front page of our local newspaper, “The Daily Independent.” Hopefully, the government will see the necessity of keeping our hospital viable to serve the needs of those charged with national defense and the community in which they reside.

With one hand you give, Representative Fong, and with the other you take away. NBC News reported that House Speaker Mike Johnson will not call for a vote to extend enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act which will guarantee that they expire at the end of the month. Higher insurance premiums will go into effect for the millions of Americans who are covered through Obamacare next year. An agreement could not be reached among Republicans, even though a group is in favor of extending the subsidies. New York Republican Representative Mike Lawler said, “Everybody has a responsibility to serve their district, to serve their constituents. You know what’s funny? Three-quarters of people on Obamacare are in states Donald Trump won. So maybe, just maybe, everybody should look at this and say, ‘How do we actually fix the health care system.’” I agree with Representative Lawler, but I would not call the situation “funny” at all. I do not think the people in our community will find it “funny” either, especially if the results greatly impact our access to healthcare in our community.

HHS Halts American Academy of Pediatrics Funding Following RFK, Jr. Criticisms

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that in an unexpected move the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has ended seven grants valuing millions of dollars to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). The funding included study initiatives on reducing sudden infant death, improving adolescent health, preventing fetal alcohol syndrome, supporting children with birth defects, and early identification of autism.

The AAP has been one of the harshest critics of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr’s changes to our nation’s vaccine policy. The loss of funding will directly impact the health and well-being of infants, children, youth, and their families across the nation. Mark Del Monte, AAP’s chief executive and executive vice president is considering a legal challenge. HHS gave the excuse for the cuts to funding that AAP has used “identity-based language,” including references to racial disparities and “pregnant people.” HHS also said that AAP is not adequately focused on nutrition and chronic disease prevention which are HHS priorities. According to Greta Massetti, the previous principal deputy director of CDC’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, organizations such as AAP “translate scientific evidence into clinical guidance, support frontline providers, and help ensure that public health recommendations reach children and families in real-world settings. Abruptly canceling grants that support these partnerships risks weakening the infrastructure that connects science, practice, and prevention.” I am opposed to this decision by HHS to cancel funding for this critical research.

Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) Continues to Propose Selling Off Public Lands

Representative Fong:

Friends of the Inyo reported that Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) continues his efforts to sell off public lands. He is proposing an amendment (Senate Amendment 3972) to the Interior Appropriations bill to allow and encourage the sale or transfer of public lands in our national parks, the vote for which may be conducted this week.

Parks such as Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and Death Valley may be impacted if the amendment passes. If the amendment reaches the House, I urge you to vote against it. Senator Lee’s persistence in attempting to eliminate language in Sec. 130 to allow for the sale of our National Parks is unpopular across party lines.

I have written to you numerous times in support of preserving our public lands, their ecosystems, and the economies that depend on them.

Jack Smith Reports to Congress on Trump’s “Criminal Scheme”

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that former special counsel Jack Smith told a congressional committee in a closed-door session that his team found “proof beyond a reasonable doubt” that President Trump was involved in a “criminal scheme” to overturn the results of the 2020 election. The president also tried to obstruct justice by keeping secret his retention of classified documents at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. The FBI search of the estate found evidence of these documents which Trump willfully retained when he left the White House in January 2021. The documents were kept in a ballroom and in bathrooms where they were not secured from the guests who frequented the estate.

Smith was subpoenaed by Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee Jim Jordan (R-OH) to testify as part of Republican efforts to investigate the special counsel because Smith brought these two indictments on Trump’s. The classified documents case was dropped in July 2024 by US District Judge Aileen Cannon, and a separate judge dropped the election case in November 2024 after Trump won the election.

In retaliation for these indictments, Trump called for Smith to be prosecuted FOR DOING HIS JOB, the job he would have done no matter the political party of the criminal. Smith wanted to testify in a public hearing to show the evidence he had found that justified the indictments, but House Republicans refused. The facts would have shown the American people how close we came to losing our democracy to Trump’s ego. To justify why Smith subpoenaed telephone calls made by nine congressional Republicans during the Jan 6 attack on the Capitol, Smith stated the records were “relevant to complete a comprehensive” investigation.

Once violence was instigated at the Capitol, “President Trump and his associates tried to call members of Congress in furtherance of their criminal scheme, urging them to further delay certification of the 2020 election,” Smith said. “I didn’t choose those members. President Trump did.” Judge Cannon banned the release of the second part of Smith’s final report regarding the classified documents so that it would not become public. Truth is a difficult pill to swallow, especially when one has been peddling lies. Republicans may try to hide the facts of these crimes from the American people, but in the end the truth is that Trump is responsible for his actions. If he didn’t want indictments, he should have chosen not to engage in illegal activities.

Senators Freeze Coast Guard Admiral’s Promotion Over Hate Symbol Policy

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that Admiral Kevin Lunday had strongly denounced and prohibited symbols such as swastikas, Confederate flags, and nooses in the Coast Guard workplace, stating his condemnation as recently as November. Lunday has been serving as acting commandant of the Coast Guard after the Trump administration removed his predecessor, the first woman to lead a branch of the US military, for her “excessive focus on diversity initiatives.” However, in a recent update of the workplace harassment policy manual, the characterization of these symbols is that they are only “potentially divisive” symbols, not ones of hate. Two senators, Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) are putting a hold on the admiral’s nomination to lead the US Coast Guard because of the downgrade of these symbols from hate symbols to ones that are “potentially divisive.” The new policy took effect Monday and the online manual states that the former policy is “cancelled.” It is unclear if the commandant had authority to change the manual, or if it required approval from Homeland Security Secretary Noem. A social media post on Wednesday night said that the Coast Guard “maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward hate symbols, extremist ideology, and any conduct that undermines our core values. We prohibit the display or promotion of hate symbols in any form.” It is unknown if the manual will be amended, but some Republicans are now expressing their concerns. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) is asking for clarification “in the strongest terms possible, that the Coast Guard does not tolerate symbols of hate…” Senator Lankford (R-OK) also expressed his disapproval and wanted assurances that the policy would be corrected. I support the Senators who are paying attention to these matters that are important for the integrity of the Coast Guard, as we witness signs of bigotry seeping into various departments of the government under the Trump administration.

Week of November 30th

Trump Pardons Former Corrupt Honduran President

Representative Fong:

According to the NYTimes, President Trump announced his plan to pardon former President of Honduras Juan Orlando Hernandez who is serving a 45-year prison term in New York following his conviction of decades of drug trafficking and weapons charges. Hernandez was notorious for accepting a $1 million bribe from drug lord Joaquin Guzman, better known as El Chapo, to allow 500 tons of cocaine to pass through Honduras in route for the United States. As president, he maintained a flourishing drug trade over several decades, making Honduras one of the most corrupt and violent countries in Central America. Hernandez’s trial was the largest drug-trafficking case to come before US courts since that of Manuel Noriega thirty years earlier. Despite Trump’s constant accusations of drug trafficking to justify attacks on Venezuelan ships, he said he will pardon Hernandez because he was a victim of political persecution. Trump provided no proof for his claim.

Honduras serves as a key military base for counternarcotics and is home of a huge banana industry owned by the United Fruit Company. Hernandez rose to power using drug money to manipulate the vote, and dozens of people were killed in his military crackdown. Just as Trump is sympathetic to former Brazilian President Bolsonaro who attempted to overthrow his government which landed him a 27-year prison sentence, Trump is choosing to issue a pardon for Hernandez because, as he stated, “They gave him 45 years because he was the President of the Country –you could do this to any President.” Yes, the courts could do this if evidence existed that the President violated the law and he was convicted. In a country where the rule of law is paramount, so it should be.

House and Senate Committees Inquire into Second Strike on Alleged Drug Boat

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that both the House and Senate Armed Services Committees will conduct oversight around a reported second strike against a Venezuelan boat, first reported by The Washington Post, that was attacked by American forces for suspected drug trafficking. The second strike was conducted when the first failed to kill all the occupants, according to a US official and another source familiar with the Pentagon’s activities. The second strike was ordered by the Joint Special Operations commander who was complying with an order from Defense Secretary Hegseth to “kill everybody.” Military code does not permit the killing of people who are incapacitated from military attack, and they should have been rescued and arrested. So, a second strike on the survivors would constitute a war crime or murder.

The strikes took place on September 2, ultimately killing all eleven people onboard. More than 20 strikes have been conducted on Venezuelan vessels killing at least 82 people, even though the US is not at war with Venezuela. The president says he did not know anything about the second strike and that Secretary Hegseth did not call for the second strike. Hegseth said in a statement, “Every trafficker we kill is affiliated with a Designated Terrorist Organization. Our current operations in the Caribbean are lawful under both US and International law, with all actions in compliance with the law of armed conflict –and approved by the best military and civilian lawyers, up and down the chain of command.”

Trump indicated that his administration will not seek congressional approval for targeting drug traffickers. He said, “I think we’re just gonna kill people that are bringing drugs into our country.” Press Secretary Leavitt said Admiral Mitch Bradley was the one who ordered the strike, and he was within his authority “in self-defense to protect Americans.” Essentially, Leavitt was saying that the two survivors clinging to the disabled vessel were posing a threat to our forces in the Caribbean. These operations are clearly in great need of congressional oversight.

Trump Launches Vicious Verbal Attacks on Somalis in US, Fires Immigration Judges Without Cause

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that at his cabinet meeting today, the president engaged in a tirade against Somali immigrants whom he referred to as “garbage.” Trump also referred to Somalia-born Representative Ilhan Omar as garbage. He said, “When they come from hell and they complain and do nothing but bitch, we don’t want them in our country.” Vice President Vance showed his support of this statement regarding an entire ethnic community by banging the table. The administration is beginning an intensive immigration enforcement campaign which targets Somali immigrants in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area.

In response to the shooting in Washington, DC of two National Guard members, one of which was fatal, by a recent Afghan immigrant, the president paused all immigration applications from 19 countries banned from travel to the US earlier this year, halting green cards and US citizenship processing. Because immigration has been the single issue for which the president originally received support from his base, he is focusing on this issue now to take attention away from the economy (or “affordability”) and to garner support for the controversial and likely illegal military operations against Venezuelan sea vessels. The president also threatened to attack Venezuelans on land for drug trafficking, saying, “We know where they live.”

ABC News reported that the Trump administration has fired eight immigration judges in New York City. Prior to the mass firing, a judge filed a lawsuit against the Department of Justice for her abrupt dismissal, accusing discrimination and violation of civil rights law. The judges are not evaluated for their performance but are targeted simply as disfavored civil servants. These firings come as the Department of Homeland Security is hiring more deportation judges. More than 100 immigration judges have been dismissed, resigned, or transferred out of immigration adjudication since the start of the Trump administration. These judges have experience in immigration law while the current backlog of immigration cases numbers 3.7 million!

No matter how many times the president rants publicly in such unbecoming and disrespectful ways, I still feel enormous disgust that not a single person in the room stands against his cruel stereotyping, mischaracterizations, and bigotry.

Trump Pardons Democratic Representative Henry Cuellar Who Was Indicted for Bribery

Representative Fong:

ABC News reported that Trump announced he will pardon Democratic Texas Representative Henry Cuellar and his wife who were indicted on charges including bribery in 2024. The president claims that former President Biden “went after the Congressman” because Cuellar spoke against his immigration policy and often broke with his party on votes in the House. Cuellar and his wife Imelda allegedly accepted about $600,000 in bribes from an Azerbaijani government oil and gas company and from a bank headquartered in Mexico City. He also allegedly influenced a series of legislative measures regarding Azerbaijan’s conflict with neighboring Armenia and inserted favorable language for Azerbaijan in security and economic programs. The Rep Cuellar and his wife pleaded not guilty, and the case was set to go to trial next April.

When you live in a country under rule of law, people are held accountable, no matter what their political affiliation. Trump’s accusation that Biden called for the indictment of Rep Cuellar is unfounded. Trump’s pardons send a message that if you side with Trump on any issue, you can operate outside of the rule of law with impunity. Law-abiding citizens do not want to live in a country where corruption abounds.

Renaming of The Institute of Peace

Representative Fong:

On March 22, 2025, I wrote to you regarding the forceable entry of the DOGE team on March 17 to the non-profit organization established by Congress in 1984, THE US INSTITUTE OF PEACE. DOGE was assisted by US Marshalls, the DC Police, and the building’s security team (the latter having been threatened to participate) to remove employees unlawfully from the building and seize their data systems. DOGE deemed the organization’s function, which was to resolve and prevent violent world conflicts, unnecessary and wasteful government spending, and took possession of the building. NBC News reported that the organization was renamed the “Donald J Trump Institute of Peace” today during a signing of a peace agreement between the presidents of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in that same building.

The Trump administration is still embroiled in a legal battle over the seizure and dismantling of the organization last March. The two African presidents were hosted by Trump last June during which time they signed a peace deal. The president has claimed he has resolved numerous conflicts around the world since the start of his second administration and believes he should be a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Meanwhile, shooting continues between Israel and Hamas, Pakistan and India dispute the president’s involvement in their latest tenuous cease-fire, and the fighting between Rwanda and DRC continues to rage even during the ceremonial peace signing. Trump has his eyes on Congolese vast mineral wealth, especially rare earth minerals. In addition to the peace signing, Congo will sign an economic partnership with the US.

As always, Trump, who displays ALL THE CRITERIA for the definition of a SOCIOPATH, demonstrates no real concern for peace, loss of human life and suffering that accompany conflict, or improvement of conditions for people around the world. We have not forgotten the dismantling of USAID and Voice of America nearly immediately when he took office. Trump is only concerned about his self-aggrandizement, his personal enrichment, and glorification for his invented achievements. Adding his name to the US Institute of Peace is disgraceful.

Supreme Court to Decide on Birthright Citizenship

Representative Fong:

The Fourteenth Amendment states, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.” The language of the amendment was to ensure that Black former slaves and their children would be recognized as citizens following the Civil War. NBC News reported that the Trump administration would like to roll back automatic birthright citizenship by executive order. Currently, the only exceptions to birthright citizenship are children born to foreign diplomats, invading hostile forces, and members of some Native American tribes (the latter who are granted birthright citizenship through the Citizenship Act of 1924 that grants them dual citizenship to their respective tribal nations and cannot be altered by executive order).

The Supreme Court will decide the lawfulness of President Trump’s plan by the end of June. Trump is looking forward to the outcome in the conservative majority of the Supreme Court, a court that has mostly supported his agenda. With his anti-immigration outlook, Trump would like birthright citizenship to apply only to babies born from at least one parent who is a US citizen or permanent legal resident. Babies born to temporary visitors, whether they entered the country legally or illegally would not be citizens because they do not bear allegiance to the United States in his opinion. As the amendment currently stands, it has longstanding (more than a century) precedence and scholarly consensus. The Supreme Court ruled on a case in 1898 (United States v. Wong Kim Ark) in which a man born in San Francisco, whose parents were Chinese, was a US citizen.

The Trump administration was able to secure Supreme Court intervention when it argued that individual judges do not have the authority to block executive plans nationwide. The merits of the executive order have not been part of the decision. Currently, the Supreme Court is considering a ruling on Trump’s broad use of tariffs and his authority to fire members of executive government, including the Federal Reserve. Much is riding on the Supreme Court’s decisions which could support Trump’s continual upending of our nation as we have known it. Those of us who are opposed to the UNILATERAL DECISIONS made by this administration wonder if we will ever be able to right the ship.

Release of The National Security Strategy (NSS) of the United States of America

Representative Fong:

I am opposed to the dramatic directional change of the foreign policy issued by the Trump administration on December 4, 2025. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, the strategy shifts from the promotion of democracy and freedom while preserving world peace to increasing US power, self-interest, and economic prosperity (which experience with the passing of HR1 indicates will not be equitably shared). Our European Allies are expected to move towards defending themselves, so the end of NATO can be expected. Although resolving the Russia-Ukraine war remains the US interest, the outcome is placed more on the shoulders of Europe. The document criticizes the culture of Europe and predicts its decline, blaming its immigration policy. The US will respect the sovereignty of China but expects China to stay out of Latin America. The burden of deterring conflict with China in the Taiwan strait will shift to our Indo-Pacific Allies. American troops will have a reduced presence in the Middle East, and the US will focus more on its dominance in the Western Hemisphere, engaging more with its Latin American neighbors and providing rewards for those who enter in economic arrangements favorable to the United States.

This strategy sacrifices US influence in parts of the world where China and Russia are emboldened. Competition for power and threats to American interests from China, Russia, and North Korea are not addressed in the new strategy, and danger from Iran is downplayed from Operation Midnight Hammer earlier this year. The US focus in on Latin America, arresting migration, eliminating narco-terrorists, and assuring US dominance through what is referred to as the “Trump Corollary” to the Monroe Document. It states, “we must not overlook governments with different outlooks with whom we nonetheless share interests,” indicating that cooperating with autocracies is not out of the realm of possibility.

The document states that the US goal is to have an orderly hemisphere, but not necessarily a democratic one. The US will not insist on shared values as a condition for partnership. According to Heather Cox Richardson on Substack, the policy was released late at night, without the usual fanfare or presidential speech. The US will distance itself from the international order that has existed post-World War II to prevent another world war. Institutions such as the United Nations and NATO, and the free trade agreements established with our Allies that defined global rules for foreign engagement are now considered to have been detrimental to the United States and having undermined “the character of our nation.” The cultural health of the nation will be restored by resurrecting its past glory and heroes and building a new “golden age” of “strong, traditional families.” All embassies must be aware of major business opportunities and government contracts and “should understand that part of their job is to help American companies compete and succeed.” If countries oppose US initiatives, the “United States must also resist and reverse measures such as targeted taxation, unfair regulation, and expropriation that disadvantage US businesses.”

The US plans to extract resources from Latin America and is embracing a system in which less powerful nations are controlled by great powers in their sphere of influence, the system in place prior to World War II and the one favored by Putin. Ulrike Franke of the European Council on Foreign Relations said, “The transatlantic relationship as we know it is over…this is now official US White House policy. Not a speech, not a statement. The West as it used to be no longer exists.” This major transformation of our national foreign policy has been made unilaterally without engagement and consent of Congress.

Week of November 23rd

Representative Fong Appointed to House Homeland Security Committee

Representative Fong:

You were recently appointed to the House Homeland Security Committee. Project 2025, which Trump administration officials have continued to obfuscate or deny (despite the fact that a large number of them were involved in actually writing the conservative agenda), calls for the dismantling of the Department of Homeland Security along with the federal Department of Education (the latter being well underway to its demise). Are you involved in that process in your oversight of the department as an appointee?

According to reporting from ProPublica, Secretary Noem is prioritizing extraordinarily expensive advertising (costs for which are being funneled to an advertising agency belonging to her personal acquaintance) depicting herself riding through the countryside on horseback over using funding for FEMA and other services that protect the nation. So, perhaps the wasting of taxpayer dollars is part of the scheme to eliminate the department. Will you be involved in congressional oversight to call on DOJ to open an investigation into Secretary Noem’s waste and abuse of funding and her bypassing the required bidding process rules designed to avoid corruption? Rather than focusing on cybersecurity and counterterrorism (which Department of Defense Secretary Hegseth has similarly reduced) and emergency preparedness (the responsibility for which is being transferred to states which struggle to fulfill the role without federal support), will you be prioritizing harsh treatment and detention of illegal immigrants which have already been enormously funded?

Roughly two-thirds of Trump’s executive orders support the proposals outlined in Project 2025, completely redesigning government as we have known it, all leading to less oversight and more autocratic governance. Is that your objective?

Trump Administration’s Pressure on Ukraine

Representative Fong:

NPR reported that Ukraine is under enormous pressure to accept a peace deal that the United States and Russian negotiators developed. The draft of the plan GREATLY favors Russia. The plan was leaked to Axios and later confirmed by the Trump administration, having supposedly been drafted by Steve Witkoff and a Russian businessman and advisor to Putin, Kirill Dmitriev.

The plan requires Ukraine to give up territory in the Donbas that it currently controls, limit its military, reduce its weapons arsenal, and agree never to join NATO. These concessions are extraordinary in that Ukraine has categorically rejected most of the proposals on numerous occasions in the past, and that the war started when Russia violated Ukraine’s sovereignty and violated the Budapest Memorandum of 1994.

No punishment for Russia exists in the plan and Russia would be welcomed back into the international community with sanctions lifted and would join the United States in a joint Arctic exploration deal. Ukraine has fought valiantly against Russian aggression, and this plan puts President Zelinskyy in the awkward position of betraying his country and his dignity or losing US backing.

Trump has indicated that this plan is not his final offer, but he is giving Zelinskyy only to Thursday to respond. As talks are underway, Russia continues to bombard Ukraine. Fortunately, European leaders are becoming involved in the process and offering a counter plan. According to PBS, Secretary of State Rubio called US Senators while they were attending the Halifax International Security Forum saying the plan is more of a Russian “wish list” than an actual path to peace. However, a state department official denied Rubio’s account. The press secretary announced that Rubio and Witkoff devised the plan together. Later, Rubio posted on social media that the plan was authored by the US with input from both Russia and Ukraine. Witkoff accidentally posted on social media that the leak of the plan to Axios must have come from Russian advisor Dmitriev, but his post was quickly deleted. US Senators say such a plan only rewards Moscow for its aggression and would send a message to other leaders who threaten their neighbors.

Trump suspended US participation in the Halifax International Security Forum, a group of 300 military leaders, US senators, defense officials, diplomats, and scholars, that has been meeting for 17 years because of Trump’s strained relationship with Canada. Trump has alienated Canada by his insistence that Canada become the 51^st state and by imposing tariffs. A large number of bipartisan Senators made the trip to the forum this year despite the strained relationship.

As with most of the Trump administration’s far-from-transparent involvement in foreign affairs, the world is skeptical that outcomes of the plan will be favorable for Ukraine without substantial revision.

Trump Threatens Members of Congress With Sedition

Representative Fong:

Reuters, CNN, USA Today, and other outlets reported that Trump accused Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a retired Navy Captain who is a decorated veteran and astronaut, and five other Democrats of seditious behavior for a video they issued in which they urged US troops to refuse ILLEGAL orders. Democrats, including members of the US military who spoke anonymously, expressed concerns that the Trump administration is violating laws by ordering the US military to attack vessels of suspected drug traffickers in Latin American waters. Secretary of Defense Hegseth said the Pentagon is reviewing Senator Kelly and the other five individuals who have military and intelligence backgrounds for “serious allegations of misconduct,” referring to them as the “Seditious Six.” Trump said that the crime of sedition is punishable by death and believed hanging would be appropriate. Senator Kelly learned of the sedition accusations from social media posts.

The video simply reminded military troops that they are not obligated to follow orders that are illegal, the SAME INSTRUCTION that each person entering the military is given under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Concerns among American citizens arose because in the past, Trump has asked members of the military to engage in illegal acts, such as shooting peaceful protestors in the legs to deter them (but fortunately his staff informed him of illegality, and he yielded to their advice). The Trump administration has engaged in questionable illegal acts with regards to deporting immigrants, ignoring due process, and pushing against court orders.

No one serving in the government is obliged to engage in illegal acts at the behest of the president or any other superior. Although the president has immunity from prosecution during his presidency, those serving under him do not, and stating that they were following orders is not a valid defense. Senator Kelly, Senator Elissa Slotkin and Representatives Jason Crow, Maggie Goodlander, Chris Deluzio, and Chrissy Houlahan were exercising their first amendment rights in creating a public service announcement to clarify the law. Senator Kelly released a statement indicating that he and the other members of Congress are doing their jobs to hold the Trump administration accountable. He commented further that the president and defense secretary are trying to intimidate and silence them because they “care more about their own power than protecting the Constitution.” I commend these members of Congress for addressing the concerns of their constituents and for doing their duty to check the executive branch.

Impact of HR1 in Kern County

Representative Fong:

The Kern Valley Sun reported on November 20, 2025 (then reprinted in local newspaper The Daily Independent) the budget presentation of the Kern County administrators that was provided to the Board of Supervisors on November 18, explaining the extraordinary impact that the HR1 bill will have on Kern Country. Thousands of residents will be at risk for food and health coverage. while tens of millions of dollars will be added to costs over the next four years. Approximately 207,000 residents receive CalFresh benefits in Kern County. Under HR1 new work requirements, well-bodied recipients aged 18 and 64 who were previously waived must work or volunteer 20 hours per week, or they can only receive three months of benefits for a three-year period. That change could affect about 18,000 Kern County residents. Waivers for foster youth, veterans, and homeless will be eliminated.

CalFresh will only be available for permanent legal residents and will no longer be issued to “refugees, asylees, battered noncitizens, and trafficking victims.” An estimated 2,000 people could lose benefits under that rule. HR1 set federal thresholds that result in state penalties if CalFresh payment error rates exceed the threshold. For the first time, states will be required to contribute a share of the benefit payments in those cases. At the maximum level, costs could reach billions of dollars statewide, and counties would be required to absorb part of the impact. Once sharing of federal administrative costs drops from 50% to 25% in 2026, Kern County’s costs could reach between $5 million and $19 million. About 470,000 residents, a staggering 53% of the population of Kern County, are enrolled in Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program.

Beginning in 2027, adults aged 19 to 64 will have to document a minimum of 80 hours of work, volunteer, or other approved activities per month, unless they qualify for an exemption. Starting in 2028, Medi-Cal recipients must renew every six months to qualify for medical coverage, rather than once a year as is currently required. County staff workloads will consequently double as they must review all the cases.

When residents find themselves without coverage, they rely on 911 for emergency health issues, stressing firefighters and emergency services. Funding at the county and state levels will be impacted as federal support shrinks and staff consider ways to serve the indigent.

County staff estimate that HR1 could result in $72 million in new, unfunded costs by 2028-29. No new revenue sources have been identified to absorb these costs.

If you were truly representing all the people in Kern County, you could not have voted for HR1. It is clear why all of our requests to have you meet with constituents in Ridgecrest were denied.

Trump Hosts Saudi Crown Prince for Another Embarrassment in the Oval Office

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported on Trump’s meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at which time Trump defended the prince when respected reporter Mary Bruce questioned him about the murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump chastised the reporter for embarrassing his guest, calling her a “horrible, insubordinate” and adding that the license from her news outlet ABC should be taken away for reporting fake news. That reaction would certainly be commonplace in Saudi Arabia! The president behaved in this manner after saying that he and the crown prince were open and willing to respond to any question, focusing on his and the crown prince’s transparency with our free press, despite the lack thereof in Saudi Arabia. Trump dismissed the killing of Mr. Khashoggi by attacking the slain man’s character, saying many people did not like him (as though that justified his murder) and “things happen” (as though people walk into meetings at the Saudi consulate and as a matter of fact could be killed and dismembered).

The CIA concluded the crown prince was involved in the killing of Khashoggi. Yet, Trump welcomed him on his first visit to the White House since Khashoggi’s death with an army honor guard of black horses and trumpeters and was quick to criticize former President Biden for not shaking hands with the crown prince on his first encounter with him after the murder in 2022. Trump exonerated bin Salman of the crime, stating he “knew nothing about it.” The crown prince denied responsibility for Khashoggi’s killing, saying that an investigation was conducted and that the Saudi government is making sure that “this doesn’t happen again.” Taking the crown prince’s word about the murder of Khashoggi is not unlike Trump taking Putin’s word over US intelligence that Russia interfered in the 2016 election.

Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner has accepted huge investments in his business from the Saudi prince, and Trump’s family business has engaged in new business projects this year with Saudi partners. When asked about these deals, Trump said his sons conduct business all over the world and that he has nothing to do with his family business. The president arranged an elaborate dinner for bin Salman with tech-CEOs, including Elon Musk with whom Trump had a falling out, but who now seems to have repaired their relationship. In addition to the elegant evening, Trump had flyovers of six F-15 and F-35 fighter jets in the prince’s honor (wasteful use of tax dollars).

The leaders made deals regarding weapon sales, artificial intelligence agreements, and rare earth minerals, resulting in the prince increasing his commitment to invest from $600 billion to nearly $1 trillion in the United States. Trump designated Saudi Arabia a major non-NATO ally, which assures US protections. He has also agreed to the sale of F-35s, which could create a military imbalance in the Middle East, anger Israel, and make it easier for China to steal our technology.

Trump’s judgment in pursuing his relationship with the Saudi prince is clouded by his hopes for personal gain. That can never be good for America.

Further Dismantling of the Federal Department of Education

Representative Fong:

I have written to you numerous times about the fate of public education under the Trump administration. The NYTimes reported that a suit is being brought against the government for dismantling the federal Department of Education and assigning the responsibilities for educating our nation’s youth to other agencies. Educators, school districts, unions, and an advocacy group for people with disabilities formed a coalition to take legal action against the Department of Education for the unlawful transfer of the management of important functions of the department to the Department of Labor, the Department of Health and Human Services, The Interior Department, and the State Department.

The government argues that it is giving more control over education to parents, students, and teachers by efficient delivery of funds and services. The coalition argues that the appropriations approved by Congress require the Department of Education to continue its programs and that the Secretary of Education Linda McMahon does not have authority to alter the structure of the department and reappropriate funding. Since Secretary McMahon has been at the helm, management of the department has been “unpredictable, chaotic, and unprofessional,” the lawsuit states. She has transferred $28 billion for elementary and secondary school and about $3 billion for postsecondary education to the Labor Department. Ms. McMahon says she has authority to obtain supplies and services from other branches of government under the Economy Act.

Trump would like to close the department entirely and put full control of educating students with the states. Consequently, he has cut staff and has not sought support from Congress, most of which is opposed to abolishing the department. In July the Supreme Court allowed the president to cut the Department of Education’s staff in half. Shifting control to other federal agencies is not in keeping with the president’s efforts to transfer education fully to the states.

The Department of Education can only be abolished by Congress. Throughout this process of individuals without experience in education making decisions, focus is being taken away from educating students, and the public education system is weakened. I continue to be opposed to dismantling or abolishing the federal Department of Education.

Envoy Steve Witkoff Seems to Be Working for Putin

Representative Fong:

Numerous news agencies including TIME reported that Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, who has been tasked with brokering peace between Russia and Ukraine, has been guiding Vladimir Putin’s senior policy advisor Yuri Ushakov on how the Kremlin could best negotiate with Trump for the best outcome for Russia. Witkoff recommended that Putin speak on the phone with Trump prior to his meeting with Ukraine’s President Zelinskyy on October 17 and that he should flatter Trump on his negotiations in Gaza. At his meeting with Zelinskyy, Trump decided not to sell Tomahawk missiles, although it was being considered prior to Trump’s conversation with Putin.

Just a few weeks later, the Trump administration released a 28-point peace proposal for Russia and Ukraine that seemed to be written by the Russians with no input from Ukraine. Nearly every point favored Russian priorities. The proposal also included business opportunities and according to Anne Applebaum in The Atlantic, Witkoff has been talking to the Russians about American investments in “energy, natural resources, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, data centers, [and] rare earth metal extraction projects in the Arctic.” Ine Iversen, an independent reporter covering Ukraine posted on social media that Witkoff “has spent three decades swimming in Russian money, Russian mob circles, and Russian real-estate pipeline.” In 2013, Witkoff recommended Russian mobster Anatoly Golubchik live in a condominium in New York when the Russian applied for residency.

In response to the 28-point plan, Ukraine and its European allies proposed different conditions for peace, while Witkoff prolongs the conflict for millions of people by convincing the Kremlin that he can win Trump to its side, pulling America away from its European allies, and breaking up NATO.

Heather Cox Richardson reported that a source for The Telegraph indicated that Witkoff and Jared Kushner will travel to Moscow to recognize Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea and a large part of the other four eastern regions of Ukraine (Luhansk, Donetsk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia). She reminds us that “this is the territory covered in the “Mariupol Plan” in which Russian operatives told Trump’s campaign manager, Paul Manafort, they would help Trump win the election in exchange for his looking the other way as Russia took control of the region.”

The deep level of corruption is appalling. Robert Mueller’s 2019 report included Manafort’s admission that the plan “constituted a backdoor” way for Russia to control eastern Ukraine. This information was supported by direct testimony, emails, and intelligence assessment, according to an article published May 24 of this year in The Milwaukee Independent. Americans should recognize why Trump’s loyalty lies with Putin. In keeping with his end of the deal, he is looking the other way.

Week of November 16th

Trump Administration Unlawfully Strikes Twenty-one Boats in Three Months

Representative Fong:

The Atlantic reported that the US struck twenty boats in the last three months, claiming that those killed were involved in drug trafficking. Evidence to prove this fact is not being produced, other than reference to “intelligence.” However, the administration has a reputation for misleading the public and outright lying. Sixteen of the twenty strikes were conducted in the last month. NBC News reported today that a twenty-first strike occurred, killing another three individuals. Much attention was given to the initial strikes, but as has been the tactic of the Trump administration, repeating the same offense again and again is its attempt to make the pattern of behavior seem “normal,” and for some even acceptable.

Defense Secretary Hegseth warns again and again that drug-traffickers will be killed. Even if the so-called intelligence reports on the victims are accurate, they have not been convicted in court. Congress has not declared war, so our military is simply committing MURDER.

This assessment is made clear by the fact that when men on the attacked boats survived the blasts, they were not taken into custody, and no attempts were made to try them in court. They were simply handed back to their home countries! Even if they had been taken prisoners and found guilty of drug smuggling, our federal law does not issue the death penalty for drug trafficking convictions. Trump has called for capital punishment for drug offenses, yet he has pardoned people convicted of that crime!

The military does not have a law-enforcement role, but the president says the boat strikes are necessary because drug shipments pose a threat to the nation. He also says that Congress has no power to intervene under the War Powers Act because the strikes do not rise to the level of hostility towards US troops.

Admiral Holsey, head of the US Southern Command, abruptly resigned from his post purportedly because he was opposed to these unlawful attacks. Reuters reported that military officials involved in operations in Latin America are being asked to sign unusual nondisclosure agreements, even when national security is already restricted. CNN reported that British officials have ceased to share intelligence with the US about drug trafficking in the Caribbean because they view the boat strikes as illegal acts.

Americans should consider that the Trump government uses the excuse to deploy National Guard to American cities under the guise of fighting crime, when they are actually deployed for aggressive immigration law enforcement. In the same vein, drug trafficking enforcement by the military may be a prelude to taking broader military action in Latin America, specifically to oust Venezuelan President Maduro.

No matter what the surreptitious rationale, these strikes are illegal and should not be continued. In October, the Senate rejected a resolution requiring Trump to obtain congressional approval for military strikes in the Caribbean. It is time for Congress to REQUIRE the president to obtain CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL NOW for these murderous strikes and for ANY MILITARY ACTION against Venezuela.

FEMA Acting Administrator Resigns While More Strain Placed on States

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that David Richardson, acting administrator of FEMA, has resigned. Mr. Richardson had no experience in disaster response management and was in charge of FEMA during the horrific flooding in Texas that killed more than 130 people last July. Delays in search and rescue operations were reported, and the administrator was absent from the area, leading to a lack of leadership.

Political appointee Karen Evans will take over as acting FEMA administrator in December. Ms. Evans worked with the federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency under Homeland Security, which also oversees FEMA. She, like Mr. Richardson, has no experience in emergency management, although she has been instrumental in cutting costs at FEMA, according to sources speaking on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to provide public comment. Ms. Evans rejected many FEMA spending requests earlier this year before they even reached the desk of Homeland Security Secretary Noem. Secretary Noem has imposed a requirement that she personally approve any expense over $100,000. Mr. Richardson is returning to the private sector, but he was lauded for “refocusing the agency to deliver swift resources to Americans in crisis.”

Trump would like to eliminate FEMA and place the responsibility for disaster relief on the states. A report is forthcoming which will detail plans to reshape FEMA’s role in disasters across the country. Mr. Richardson replaced Cameron Hamilton just after he reported to members of Congress that FEMA was vital to communities in times of disaster. FEMA employees expressed concern about Mr. Richardson’s lack of experience. While holding the position at FEMA, he continued his role as assistant secretary at HHS in the office for countering weapons of mass destruction. He was unaware that the US has hurricane seasons. He warned FEMA employees that if they tried to obstruct his direction, he would run over them.

More than 2,000 employees, constituting one-third of the workforce, have left FEMA since Trump took office. Trump hopes to make reforms that would include raising the disaster threshold for what warrants federal intervention, changing how states receive funding from the federal agency, and ending FEMA’s involvement in long-term recovery in disaster-affected communities. State management officials, especially those in southwestern Alaska who are managing victims of Typhoon Halong, are eager to see a final report on FEMA restructuring which is now expected by the end of the year. Thus far, the eastern US has been spared landfall of the most destructive storms, and the wildfire season in the western states has been calmer than expected.

Changes to FEMA, or its possible elimination, will be another example of states not being able to depend on the federal government for services for which our citizens pay taxes. Each time that the Trump administration creates a belief for the American people that their institutions do not work, opportunities for authoritarian control abound and funding can be siphoned off. As states take on more and more of the responsibility of governing, citizens ask why they should pay taxes to an oppressive federal government that does not provide for them. Certainly, you can see the risk that this path poses to our federation.

Border Patrol and ICE Employ Racial Profiling in Charlotte, North Carolina

Representative Fong:

The Guardian and CNN reported that Border Patrol agents arrived in Charlotte, North Carolina on Saturday to assist ICE with combatting crime, but they were met with numerous protests. Agents encountered immigrants near churches, apartment complexes, and shops, making arrests which included US citizens. Agents were masked and heavily armed, wearing paramilitary clothing and driving unmarked vehicles. Citizens were targeted based on their skin color and accents. The raids stoked fear in the usually peaceful communities, shuttering businesses, church services, and schools.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles expressed her concern after seeing video recordings of some of the encounters and arrests. The operation has been named “Charlotte’s Web,” after the children’s book by EB White. EB White’s granddaughter condemned the agency for using her grandfather’s book title for such an operation, stating that EB White “believed in the rule of law and due process…He certainly didn’t believe in masked men, in unmarked cars, raiding people’s homes and workplaces without IDs or summons.” Gregory Bovino, the lead border patrol official quoted from the children’s book on social media, justifying that “agents go where the mission calls.” Muslim-American groups issued public warnings to residents, indicating that mosques and community spaces would likely be targeted. The Department of Homeland Security announced they had arrested 130 illegal aliens, saying those arrested included gang affiliation, aggravated assault, shoplifting, and other crimes, but no proof or other details were provided. Charlotte has a diverse population, and the east part of the city has a large Latino neighborhood.

Willy Aceituno had his car window smashed and was dragged from his vehicle, thrown to the ground, and handcuffed as he shouted, “I am a citizen.” Aceituno was later released. David Rebolloso, a laundromat owner, military vet, and American citizen fought back tears when he spoke of how nervous the community has become because of the aggressive tactics of the agents. Landscapers were arrested while putting up Christmas decorations. Agents, who smiled gleefully at cameras recording them, arrested a 16-year-old boy whom they pinned to the concrete.

North Carolina Governor Jost Stein encouraged citizens to record and notify law enforcement of inappropriate behavior from the agents. Five country sheriffs won offices in 2018 with a platform of not cooperating with ICE. Law enforcement will not assist ICE or border patrol, but they cannot intervene in any federal arrests. Being an undocumented immigrant is a CIVIL OFFENSE, NOT A CRIMINAL ONE. Bovino has criticized Governor Stein for saying that ICE is “not promoting safety in our communities,” even though the governor has urged citizens to follow the law and remain peaceful.

As we witness more of these acts of brutality from ICE and other federal agencies, we cannot believe they are prevalent in the United States of America, and we will NEVER accept or condone them.

Trickery in the DOJ Comey Case

Representative Fong:

The Atlantic reported that the president’s US prosecutor in Virginia, Lindsey Halligan, admitted to the judge that she had never shown the complete version of the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey to the grand jury before it was signed by the foreperson. The judge was trying to determine whether the indictment was properly charged and if, as Comey’s defense team argues, the indictment was rushed as an act of retribution by the president. The judge brought up Trump’s public statements about wanting Comey to be indicted, although an earlier decision by career members of the DOJ decided not to bring charges. Another judge involved in the case suggested that Ms. Halligan may have engaged in prosecutorial misconduct. One of Ms. Halligan’s subordinates, Tyler Lemons, admitted that he had been instructed not to discuss whether his predecessors had written a memo in which they explained why charges were not being brought against Mr. Comey. He confessed during the proceedings that the memo was indeed written. The judge did not issue a ruling, but he seems to be leaning towards Mr. Comey’s claims that the case was brought vindictively.

Mr. Comey’s attorney, Michael R. Dreeben, requested that the charges be thrown out because they violated First Amendment and due process rights, and that Trump was using the DOJ to “punish and deter those who would speak out against him,” a clear abuse of the criminal justice system. The courts may now rule that the president’s efforts to punish his political enemies by taking legal action is unacceptable.

Courts Rule Texas Redistricting is Illegal for Racial Gerrymandering While Trump Pressure Continues

Representative Fong:

Reuters reported that a federal court blocked Texas from using a new congressional map which attempted to flip several Democratic representative seats to Republican seats in the 2026 mid-term elections. The courts determined that Governor Greg Abbott directed the legislature to redraw the maps based on race. Trump had encouraged Texas Republicans to redraw boundaries of state congressional districts to maximize the number of Republicans who could be elected. Governor Abbot filed an appeal to the ruling to the Supreme Court. The Texas attempt to create a new map prior to the next census was an effort to tilt as many as five Democratic seats to Republicans and it started a nationwide redistricting battle. Civil Rights groups brought the case against the Texas legislature saying that the maps were racially gerrymandered, and that the goal was not just partisan redistricting.

The court ruling was issued by a Trump appointed judge who concluded that the map violated federal law. Gerrymandering seeks to redraw boundaries to marginalize certain voters while increasing the influence of others. Although the Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that federal courts cannot intervene in cases involved in gerrymandering for partisan advantage, gerrymandering driven by race is illegal. As further evidence that the redistricting was illegal, the judge provided a letter that was issued from Trump’s DOJ which threatened legal action if a new map was not produced, violating the US Constitution’s promise of equal protection under the law and protections against racial discrimination in voting. The NAACP noted that although the population of Texas is only 40% white, white voters control over 73% of the state’s congressional seats. The new map packed minority voters into some districts and took them out of others, creating fewer districts in which Hispanic and Black voters were a majority.

NBC News reported the result of the president’s encouragement to redraw maps in another state. Indiana Senator Greg Goode was swatted last Sunday a few hours after the president criticized him and other Republican lawmakers for refusing to redraw their state’s congressional map. County Sheriff Derek Fell indicated the police department received an email saying that “harm had been done to persons inside a home” at Senator Goode’s address.

Swatting or false reporting to law enforcement to intimidate or harass victims with a police response is a tactic used by political supporters to encourage politicians to keep in line with the president’s agenda. The White House did not respond to questions about the swatting incident, but Trump said he would endorse against Indiana state lawmakers who do not support redistricting.

Trump Meets With Mamdani in Oval Office

Representative Fong:

Trump met with Zohran Mamdani, the newly elected mayor of New York City in the Oval Office today and he was uncharacteristically cordial, respectful, and conciliatory. The president continued his usual non-specific criticisms of the past administration for our economic issues and for wars raging in other countries. Considering Trump’s past comments in which he called Mamdani a “communist,” the meeting was surprisingly encouraging about their future collaboration. Although the two differ greatly in their political ideology, they were able to have a civil conversation and exchange of ideas. They agreed that peace is a goal in the Middle East and that Americans clamor for an affordable lifestyle. Mamdani spoke about the inequities of taxation and how that issue is one of the fundamental causes of the absence of affordability. The president indicated the two agree on addressing crime, building affordable housing, and bringing costs down, but they disagree on methods to achieve those goals. He complimented Mamdani for retaining his Police Commissioner who he believes does a good job in the fight against crime in the nation’s largest city.

Mamdani said that during their meeting he addressed the positive results of the New Deal and noted the president actually agreed. Trump, looking for common ground, said that many of the voters who voted for Bernie Sanders voted for him, so some points of agreement apparently exist. These similarities of viewpoint seem to be buried by the Trump administration in its goal of constantly dividing Americans.

Trump and Mamdani disagree on the manner in which the administration is dealing with immigration, particularly with the rogue tactics of Border Control and ICE. Mamdani has referred to the president throughout his campaign as a fascist, and the president did not even contest that fact or take umbrage when it was brought up by the press!

From Trump’s past negative rhetoric in his characterization of Mamdani, Americans are unclear in their understanding about the political position of a social democrat. When the label “socialist” is assigned to an individual, the idea of advocacy for state ownership of industry immediately comes to mind, along with a reduction of freedom, conflicting with the individual ownership found in our capitalist society. Consequently, the broad label instills mistrust and even fear. However, social democracy advocates for a capitalistic framework devoid of totalitarianism and a society where individuals have protected civil and political rights. Social democracy, through an equitable taxation system, supports a lawful society in which public infrastructure, a free public education system, and social services (such as our Social Security and public health care systems) benefit the whole of society by protecting the elderly and infirm, the unemployed, and others who need support to thrive.

Government regulation assures that workers, consumers, and investors are protected against corruption and monopolistic practices, and agencies (such as our Environmental Protection Agency) protect the water its citizens drink and the air they breathe and protect food and pharmaceutical industries (such as our Food and Drug Administration). Government in a social democracy supports the orderly functioning of society, while not taking control of company shares or holdings; not controlling intellectual direction of universities, business, and research facilities; and not controlling the lawful choices of its citizens.

Fundamentally, all have a voice in political and economic decisions, access to free and fair elections, and equal access to opportunity.

Tracking Trump Administration’s Movement Towards Authoritarianism

Representative Fong:

When observing other societies that have succumbed to authoritarian ideology, a pattern emerges. Leaders who have transformed democratic governments to authoritarian regimes weaken or eliminate checks on centralized power, appoint incompetent loyalists to government positions, replace science with ideology, threaten political opponents with prison, dismantle public education, rewrite history, normalize political violence, contest or ignore the rule of law, enrich those in power through corrupt deals, implement voter suppression tactics, intimidate and muzzle the media, scapegoat immigrants, intertwine government and religion, accuse others of the crimes they have committed themselves, restrict free trade, erase and alter government data, threaten sovereign nations, obsess over crime and punishment, oppress minority groups such as LBGTQ, disappear individuals from the streets, and gaslight the public about the reality of their condition.

We have witnessed ALL OF THESE TACTICS in the actions of Trump and his administration in the past eleven months, resulting in a significant slide to autocratic governance. In writing to you EVERY DAY on reports from our still unrestrained media, I have provided AMPLE examples in each one of these categories of the threat that Trump and his administration pose to our constitutional democracy. If you do nothing to stand up to these violations, then I can only surmise that you are complicit.

In eleven months, according to an analysis by an independent Project 2025 tracker, 48% of the objectives to transform our system with hopes of replacing it with its authoritarian ideal have been accomplished. These gains were made primarily through executive orders and strategic placement of political appointees in areas of “easy targets,” such as rolling back civil rights, environmental initiatives, and health protections.

Representative Fong, are you prepared to take responsibility for this legacy to the American people, especially our nation’s youth who will have to deal with the aftermath?

Week of November 9th

Senate Reaches Deal to Extend Government Funding and the Passing of CA Prop 50

Representative Fong:

CNN reported that the Senate reached a deal with a group of Democrats on government funding extension legislation that will be a step forward in reopening the government. The deal included a future vote to extend enhanced Affordable Care subsidies. Sadly, the president has demanded that the Department of Agriculture order all states to stop issuing SNAP benefits and “immediately undo” steps taken thus far to issue benefits through November while the government remains shut down. The shutdown has been the longest in American history.

On a separate issue, on November 7, you published a scathing Op-Ed in our local newspaper, “The Daily Independent” saying that Governor Newsom lied to Californians which resulted in millions being “left without representation.” You did not specify what the governor said that you believed was untruthful, but the measure on which we just voted was ONLY in response to Texas extreme gerrymandering and this fact was clearly (and honestly) explained to the residents of California. The way I understand the results of Prop 50 is that the election map will be redrawn, just as was done in Texas (the ONLY reason California residents voted to pass Prop 50 in the first place), and although many of us will be moved to alternative districts, WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE REPRESENTED.

I applaud Governor Newsom for taking action to counter the gerrymandering conducted in Republican states to UPSET THE BALANCE of election representation in our country. WE SUPPORT INDEPENDENT REDISTRICTING in California, which WAS THE FAIR SYSTEM here, and the way we believe it should be in EVERY STATE. We understand that the system in CA will return to its previous constitutional authorized process following the census of 2030. Fortunately, Governor Newsom had the COURAGE to take action despite the POLITICAL UNPOPULARITY of the proposition and the costly advertising campaign of Charlie Munger, Jr. and Arnold Schwarzenegger against the vote. I highly doubt he had purely personal motives considering the nature of the issue.

You are quick to criticize the governor, but it was the president that you vehemently support who called for redistricting in Texas and other states outside the customary cycle that prompted the governor to take like action. You state that you are “all in” for a fight, but the problem is, Representative Fong, that you don’t want a FAIR FIGHT.

Trump Pardons Those Who Backed Efforts to Overturn the 2020 Election

Representative Fong:

Time reported that according to the Department of Justice Pardon Attorney Ed Martin, Trump has ordered “full, complete, and unconditional” pardons for 77 of his political allies who allegedly supported his efforts to overturn the election results of the 2020 presidential election. Included in the list are Rudy Giuliani, former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, and attorneys Sidney Powell and John Eastman. The pardons are issued broadly to those “for conduct relating to the advice, creation, organization, execution, submission, support, voting, activities in, or advocacy for or of any slate of presidential electors…in connection with the 2020 presidential election.” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt referred to those issued the pardon as “great Americans” and said they were persecuted for “challenging an election, which is the cornerstone of democracy.”

Trump continues to lie about the outcome of the 2020 election which he and his allies contested WITHOUT PROOF, spurring a riot at the Capitol on Jan 6, 2021 with the intent of interrupting certification of the election results. Trump plans to award the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Rudy Giuliani, even though most Americans clearly understand that he and these other pardoned individuals are not heroes, as Trump tries to portray them, but are traitorous to the constitutional values which we hold dear, including the peaceful transfer of power. These pardons, along with the pardons Trump issued at the start of his second presidency to nearly 1,600 Capitol rioters (including Proud Boy leader Enrique Torrio who was serving a 22-year sentence), are FAILED ATTEMPTS to rewrite the history of the events of Jan 6, events which we witnessed with our own eyes, events which we will never, ever forget.

Department of Education Partisan “Out-of-Office” Emails Violated First Amendment

Representative Fong:

NPR reported that a ruling was issued by a federal judge that the Trump administration violated the First Amendment rights of federal Department of Education employees when their personal “out-of-office” email notifications during their furloughs were replaced with emails blaming Democrats for the government shutdown. US District Judge Christopher Cooper issued a decision last Friday stating, “When government employees enter public service, they do not sign away their First Amendment rights, and they certainly do not sign up to be a billboard for any given administration’s partisan views.”

A lawsuit on behalf of the employees was brought by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE). The judge ordered the Department of Education to restore the personalized email notices and remove the partisan language from all employee accounts whether they were union members or not. The judge admonished the federal Department of Education saying, “Nonpartisanship is the foundation of the federal civil-service system.”

This principle was enshrined by Congress in the Hatch Act, the law passed in1939 to protect public employees from political pressure and “to ensure that federal programs are administered in a nonpartisan fashion.” I am grateful to Judge Cooper for standing strong for the First Amendment rights of federal employees!

Trump Cannot Discern Between Political Satire and Reality

Representative Fong:

Jake Tapper of CNN reported that Trump believed a satirical website post which inaccurately stated that former President Obama was receiving royalties for Obamacare. Jake Tapper clarified that President Obama does NOT receive money from the country’s citizen enrollment in Affordable Care. Trump had posted the satirical article on Truth Social, even though the site, aptly named the Dunning-Kruger Times, has a disclaimer: “Everything on this website is fiction. It is not a lie, and it is not fake news because it is not real. If you believe that it is real, you should have your head examined.”

The Dunning-Kruger effect is based on a study that suggests that the less someone knows about a particular subject, the more they believe they are an expert on that subject. In the study, people who were actually knowledgeable tended to be less confident about their knowledge because the more they learned, the more they realized what they didn’t know. The president has a history of believing inaccurate facts for which he has very little information, such as that injecting bleach could cure patients infected with the COVID virus, and that he actually won the 2020 election. Most often, the fallacies that he shares are oversimplifications of complicated issues and ones that allow him to appeal to the fears of his followers.

Another tactic that he uses is to malign the character of those who disagree with him, rather than contest the information that they present with a factual argument. As president of the United States, Trump claims his opinions are correct because he is in charge. Thus, people are convinced his words carry enormous weight, and they are reluctant to trust their own logic and judgment. Unfortunately, Trump continues to influence many trusting citizens to believe the inaccurate and untruthful statements that he shares over and over again.

I am often surprised that more are not catching on from repeated experience. Some of those who eventually recognize Trump’s inaccuracies do not want to appear foolish for having been duped by him numerous times in the past, and they continue to follow him simply to save face. The outcomes of Trump’s manipulations have been devastating for our nation.

Ramifications of the End of the Government Shutdown

Representative Fong:

With eight members of the Senate voting with Republicans to reopen the government, the longest government shutdown in American history is coming to an end. Throughout the debacle, the Trump administration showed its true colors in withholding SNAP benefits from the nation’s neediest families and in furloughing federal employees while threatening that some would be permanently let go or that they would not receive back pay.

The president chastised FAA employees who, overwhelmed with stress and required to work when not being paid, were not reporting to work, creating chaos for air travel. The president is unaware that FAA workers are obligated to report stressful conditions that could cause them to make errors at work that would jeopardize the well-being of millions of travelers.

Democrats did their best to stand against the cruelty and hardship inflicted on their constituents to save them from upcoming increased healthcare premiums resulting from the Republican budget bill that allows Affordable Care subsidies to expire. The president, acting as though he has achieved a victory in reopening the government, tells the American people that he has a solution to the growing healthcare crisis. He said, “I tell you we’re going to be working on that very hard over the next short period of time, where the people get the money.” Trump said numerous times during his first administration that he was working on a healthcare plan to replace the Affordable Care Act, which he believes should be called Trumpcare, to counter reference to the Affordable Care Act as “Obamacare.” The president says he plans to give “trillions and trillions of dollars” to affected policyholders to replace subsidies while bypassing insurance firms.

Never having seen a valid plan proposed in the past to remedy the rising premiums and high deductibles of health care, Americans are not convinced they will see a remedy in the near future. His promises for healthcare were as frequently offered as his “infrastructure weeks” that never materialized. These healthcare issues are concurrent with rising prices and a cost-of-living crisis.

Additionally, according to reporting from NPR, federal workers are still awaiting backpay. Only some SNAP recipients have received their stalled benefits. Reopening of the Smithsonian museum system will be gradual. Air travel will take time to return to normal while air carriers restore their schedules, personnel, and aircraft preparations. National parks will likely take months to return staff to their positions. The IRS, which furloughed almost half of its 74,000 workers, could see the 2026 tax season impacted. According to Press Secretary Leavitt, economic inflation data and jobs reports from October may likely never be released and all of the data from the paused operations of the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics in October and November will be “permanently impaired.” Perhaps the administration will be grateful for these permanent gaps in economic data. Trump’s chaos continues.

Trump Administration DOJ Probes CA Senator Adam Schiff and Representative Eric Swalwell

Representative Fong:

MSNBC reported that the US Attorney for Maryland told the Department of Justice that strong enough evidence does not exist to charge Senator Adam Schiff of CA with mortgage fraud. Trump publicly called on Attorney General Bondi to criminally charge Schiff, who acted as the prosecutor in Trump’s first impeachment trial. The controversial Justice Department official Ed Martin is pressing to keep the case alive. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who previously represented Trump in criminal investigation, denied in a social media post on Twitter/X that he met with individuals to update him on the Schiff investigation. Senator Schiff’s attorney, Preet Bharara said, “It seems pretty clear that a team of career prosecutors have thoroughly reviewed the politically motivated allegations against Senator Schiff and found they are unsupported by any evidence and are baseless.” Mr. Bharara further commented that if the Department of Justice still has any justice left, the case which is “transparently vindictive” will be dropped.

Trump urged Bondi in a post on September 20 that Schiff should be investigated along with former FBI director James Comey and NY Attorney General Leticia James. Comey and James were separately indicted by federal grand juries in VA after the Eastern District US Attorney Erik Siebert resigned under pressure because he questioned the evidence against them. Senator Schiff said, “This is the kind of stuff you see tinpot dictators do.”

Axios reported that a Trump official submitted CA Representative Eric Swalwell to the Justice Department for criminal investigation for mortgage and tax fraud tied to his DC home. According to reports from NBC, Federal Housing Agency Director Bill Pulte, who has referred AG Leticia James, Fed Governor Lisa Cook, Senator Adam Schiff, and now Representative Swalwell to the DOJ, is claiming that Swalwell made false or misleading statements on loan documents and that he should be investigated for local tax and insurance fraud. Representative Swalwell has been a critic of Trump and was involved in both of his impeachment hearings. Swalwell also sued Trump and his allies in 2021 for inciting “injury and destruction” during the Jan 6 attack on the US Capitol. Swalwell said, “I refuse to live in fear in what was once the freest country in the world.” He called for the president to do better and be better.

Members of Congress often have multiple properties since they maintain residency in their home states and then live in proximity to Washington DC for a good deal of time for their work. The possibility of having two homes that meet the criteria for primary residences gives the Department of Justice a target area to accuse legislators of mortgage fraud.

It is unfortunate for Americans that the president and his leadership expend an extraordinary amount of time and energy shamefully seeking revenge against the president’s political enemies. They certainly adhere to the practice of Secret Police Chief Beria in Stalin’s “reign of terror” in Russia and Eastern Europe who bragged that he could prove criminal conduct on anyone, even the innocent in his famous quote, “Show me the man and I’ll show you the crime.”

Fate of the Consumer Financial Protection Board

Representative Fong:

I received a letter from you this week (unusually mailed to my home through USPS rather than sent electronically) in which you state your support for the Consumer Financial Protection Board, although you seem to agree with streamlining its oversight as well as having its responsibilities transferred to other unnamed “federal partners.”

On February 15, 2025, I wrote and submitted the following to you: “I am opposed to the elimination of the Consumer Financial Protection Board (CFPB). This agency protects American consumers from fraud, such as the unethical banking practices that resulted in the 2008 economic crisis, the dire situation that actually prompted the formation of the board. Americans must be protected from lawless corporate greed. By moving the CFPB from the Federal Reserve System and placing it under the auspices of Russell Vought in the executive branch’s Office of Personnel Management, Mr. Vought has been handed the authority to dissolve this crucial body that has operated in the best interest of vulnerable Americans.

Removing agencies that protect Americans from fraud does not support government “efficiency.” Instead, it promotes corruption and lawlessness. The current administration appears to favor the absence of oversight of any kind for the executive branch of government. Vice President Vance has made public statements that the courts do not have power over the executive branch. This outlandish view is contrary to the design that the founding fathers put in place to assure checks and balances and an equal power structure among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. In the same vein, the administration wants to eliminate regulatory agencies, giving big business free reign without accountability.” Now, the NYTimes has reported that the Trump administration is making a legal argument that funding for the CFPB is unlawful. Rather than being funded by congressional appropriations, the CFPB has been funded by the Federal Reserve, the entity which previously held its authority.

However, now that Russell Vought, the White House Budget Director is the acting director, he has not requested the usual quarterly funds from the Fed for the bureau’s operation since he was named acting director. Consequently, the agency’s cash reserves to pay nearly 1,400 employees have dwindled. A legal filing was issued this week indicating that the agency would run out of funding by early next year and could not obtain more from the Fed. The DOJ sent a letter to Vought declaring the agency’s funding stream illegal.

The 2010 law that created the agency ordered that the funding be drawn from the “combined earnings” of the Federal Reserve TO INSULATE THE FUNDING STRUCTURE OF THE INDEPENDENT AGENCY FROM PARTISAN SWINGS IN CONGRESS. The Fed has been operating at a loss since 2022 and therefore has no funds for the CFPB. This argument opposing the CFPB has been put forth for years from conservative think tanks and the Federalist Society. The CFPB has received $1 billion from the Fed since 2022.

Mr. Vought has attempted to fire more than 90% of the staff, but federal judges have halted his attempts. Nevertheless, Vought stopped most of the bureau’s operations. ONLY CONGRESS has the power to abolish the agency, although Mr. Vought seems intent on not just shrinking it, but shuttering it entirely. Trump’s signature bill cut the operating budget of the bureau nearly in half.

I am opposed, as I have always been, to the elimination of the CFPB which works to protect American consumers from fraud. Under this administration, fraudulent activity is more prevalent than ever before.

Week of November 2nd

Shutdown Situation Worsens

Representative Fong:

Politico reported that the shutdown will cause an increasingly dire situation in the days to come. As we are all aware, service programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Head Start that provides nutrition assistance and early education to young children are running out of money. Thousands of federal employees will miss their first paychecks, putting stress on families and on services such as TSA screenings and Air Traffic Control operations.

At the same time, Americans will be receiving in the mail the increase in costs to premiums for their health plans, thanks to the recently passed bill. Democrats, who have been excluded from the decisions of governance, have voted against keeping the government open in an attempt to extend enhanced tax credits before they expire at the end of the year.

The president paid active-duty members of the military from other accounts to avoid a lapse in national security, but he has refused to take similar steps for the nation’s neediest individuals. More than 10 million people rely on SNAP funds. At least 23 states plan to cut these benefits. Trump says he does not believe he has authority to use $6 billion in contingency funds for these programs for low-income families and has slowed the process just before Thanksgiving by seeking advice from the courts. More than 800,000 children under age 6 receive education, health, and nutrition services from Head Start. Teachers will not be paid and some of these crucial educational centers will be forced to close.

Essential air service to rural communities is no longer being funded. Airlines in Alaska and other remote areas may have to increase airfare in order to continue service without federal subsidies. Trump plans to continue funding the military and has even accepted an anonymous gift of $130 million from a wealthy donor to pay military salaries during the shutdown.

Lawmakers continue to receive their salaries because of stipulations in the Constitution. You have been quick to announce that you are not accepting your paycheck at this time, Representative Fong, but that does not really do anything to solve the problem. Unless Speaker Johnson calls House lawmakers to return to town to negotiate with Democrats to solve these problems, no end to the impasse is in sight.

What is clear is that Americans, especially those at the lower end of the economic scale, are suffering under the Trump administration economy. Does the Trump administration care?

Trump Administration Erases the Facts of the January 6, 2021 Riots from Court Records

Representative Fong:

CNN reported that two US attorneys, Carlos Valdivia and Samuel White, wrote in their court filings while prosecuting Taylor Taranto, who was convicted of bringing illegal guns near President Barack Obama’s Washington DC residence, that “then former President Donald Trump published on a social media platform the purported address of former President Barack Obama.” Subsequently, Taranto “started livestreaming from his van” while driving through Obama’s neighborhood. The filing also noted that Taranto took part in the January 6 riot, and the information was posted on social platform X by Politico reporter Kyle Cheney. Within 24 hours, the court filing was removed from the court record and the two prosecutors were suspended from their jobs. The original court report stated that “Taranto was accused of participating in the riot in Washington, DC by entering the US Capitol Building.” Additional information was provided stating, “After the riot, Taranto returned to his home in the State of Washington, where he promoted conspiracy theories about the events of January 6, 2021.”

Two new prosecutors filed an amended version of the sentencing memo the following day. The new memo made no reference to Trump or his posting of Obama’s address, and no mention of Taranto’s participation and conviction related to the January 6 Capitol attack. Stacey Young, a former Justice Department employee and founder of Justice Connection, an organization that represents the viewpoints of former federal prosecutors, said, “It’s shocking that prosecutors could be put on leave for accurately stating the court record in a sentencing memo, and it’s just as shocking that those truthful statements have been whitewashed in a revised filing.” Despite putting Valdivia and White on suspension, the Justice Department continued to seek a 27-month sentence for Taranto who had also made threats against former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin and threatened to bomb federal facilities.

In the end, Taranto was sentenced to 21 months in prison, covered by time served. At the sentencing, the judge stated Taranto had no criminal history and his conduct “was far from egregious.” Taranto did not apologize at his hearing but said that people questioned the results of the 2020 election and he wanted to keep people’s minds open. The judge said the two prosecutors placed on leave did “a commendable and exceptional job.” Valdivia and White, who attended the sentencing, declined to comment.

The travesty of justice under this administration continues.

Renovation of The Lincoln Bathroom in the White House

Representative Fong:

While millions of Americans carry the burden of concern for their economic future with the shutdown of the government, enormous cuts to federal employment and to social services, and concerns over health care, the NYTimes reported that President Trump posted dozens of photos of an elaborate renovation of the bathroom in the Lincoln Bedroom. The remodeled bathroom included marble walls and gold faucet and light fixtures.

President Trump said the bathroom renovation is “very appropriate for the time of Abraham Lincoln.” Information about the cost of the construction, the contractor, or who paid for it was not provided. Trump said he believes that his choice of “statuary marble” goes with “1850 and civil wars and all of the problems” and is “in keeping with the time.” Edward Lengel, chief historian of the White House Historical Association, said “it doesn’t look anything like 1850s interiors to me.” The bathroom is in an area that had been a sitting room in President Lincoln’s day and did not likely include marble.

Trump has made numerous changes in the White House during his residency. Some changes have been minor, such as his replacement of a photo of Hilary Clinton with a photo of his own face colored with the American flag, while others have been substantial, such as when he cut down the historic magnolia tree on the grounds that had been planted by Andrew Jackson in 1829 in memory of his wife. The president has latitude to make renovations on the property and says he is not subject to zoning or permitting regulations.

Trump posted photos of the extravagant Lincoln bathroom renovation on Halloween, the same day that he hosted a “Great Gatsby” themed Halloween party at Mar-a-Lago, entitled, “A little party never killed nobody” after the song from the 2013 film adaptation of the F. Scott Fitzgerald novel. The novel famously depicts the wealth and economic divisions in the country in the 1920s. Criticisms of the gala were abundant because it was scheduled the evening before millions of American’s SNAP benefits were set to expire.

The president seems unaware of the optics of flaunting an opulent White House renovation and throwing a Great Gatsby party at a time of economic hardship and concern for many Americans.

Trump Family Crypto Company

Representative Fong:

Reuters published a lengthy special report on the Trump family crypto-company, World Liberty Financial on October 25. The article provides detailed information regarding the company’s worldwide activities. In June of this year, an obscure organization called Aqua1 Foundation based in the United Arab Emirates bought $100 million of cryptocurrency tokens from World Liberty. The Chinese businessman who met with Eric Trump in Dubai is Guren Zhou, who is under investigation in Britain for money laundering.

Donald Trump’s two elder sons, Eric and Donald, Jr. traveled the globe around the time their father’s election to his second term as president, promoting World Liberty and other businesses that funnel investor cash into the Trump businesses, known as the Trump Organization. The brothers have seen amazing success with the Trump Organization’s assets rising from $51 million to $864 million in one year! More than 90% of the increase came from Trump crypto business, including sales of World Liberty tokens. By comparison, Trump’s golf clubs and resorts value $33 million and licensing his name to overseas real estate developers is worth $23 million.

Much of the crypto earnings appeared in the early months of the president’s second term. The family also earned about $336 million from the Trump meme coin, $TRUMP. The digital assets are backed by little more than the Trump name, and the value of the meme coin is based solely on the popularity that is associated with it. Identities of buyers are hidden behind opaque “wallet” addresses. Of those known buyers, most have a history of legal and regulatory entanglements related to their businesses. Foreign investors greatly outnumber US investors. Reuters interviewed six foreign crypto investors and five of the six sought investment opportunities with the younger Trumps because of their close relationship to their father, president of the US, with hopes of cashing in on his political and financial power.

The president holds a public role as overseer of US crypto policy and thus represents a conflict of interest unprecedented in modern history. Washington University law professor Kathleen Clark who specializes in government ethics said, “These people are not pouring money into coffers of the Trump family business because of the brothers’ acumen. They are doing it because they want freedom from legal constraints and impunity that only the president can deliver.” Richard Painter, a professor at the University of Minnesota law School, says, “its legal, but unethical,” if no explicit promises of access to the president are being made.

In any case, the president, as beneficiary of the trust that controls the Trump Organization, will have the money the family is now making when he leaves office. His name and that of Steve Witkoff, the president’s special envoy to the Middle East, appear as “co-founder emeritus,” even though their names were “removed upon taking office.” Also worth mentioning is that Trump recently pardoned Binance founder and huge investor in World Liberty Finance, Chinese-born Changpeng Zhao, who pleaded guilty to money laundering. Is Congress paying attention?

Use of the Filibuster as a Congressional Tool

Representative Fong:

In an article by Jonathan Chait in the Atlantic in which he argues that the filibuster should be eliminated, he states accurately that Democrats are using the filibuster to their advantage as the minority party to shut down the government to force Republicans to extend health insurance subsidies.

Mr. Chait says that Trump has recently voiced his turn against the filibuster because he doesn’t care about the future operation of the government. When a single party has control of the House and Senate, the supermajority has been viewed as an important means to check the power of one party. However, the filibuster has done very little if anything to support bipartisan cooperation. Democrats are using the filibuster to force Republicans to work with them, but Republicans have patently refused to negotiate. Chait argues that the filibuster has not protected democracy or prevented abuse of power.

Trump has managed to implement an authoritarian system by completely bypassing Congress. According to Chait, “the president has corrupted the Justice Department, purged the military, seized police powers, strong-armed the media, ignored due process, and waged an undeclared war in the Caribbean, all while barely consulting the legislature. Trump has seized the power of the purse by creating new sources of revenue (tariffs he can set unilaterally), eliminating programs Congress authorized, and suggesting new ones of his own choosing, such as subsidies to compensate farmers hurt by his tariffs.” By issuing executive orders, Trump has reduced public backlash while giving the impression that Congress has been too ineffective to solve national problems. His message has been that the system is broken and only he can fix it.

He has managed to amass power in the hands of a single person, the opposite of what our founders had in mind. Will we be able to undo the authoritarian damage inflicted on our government? Chait believes that we might start by “reestablishing Congress as a functional branch of government, working in the original image designed by the Founders, rather than one in which minority parties can thwart even the simplest of functions.” I may not agree with Mr. Chait about eliminating the filibuster, but I do agree that reestablishing Congress as a branch that works in bipartisan ways through serious negotiation, and as a check on the executive branch might restore our constitutional republic.

Trump Continues Effort to Avoid Fully Funding SNAP

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that the Trump administration requested an appeals court today to halt a judge’s ruling requiring the government to fund fully Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for approximately 42 million Americans by the end of the day. The Agriculture Department informed states that it was planning to make funds available to deliver the benefits. Many states said they had started to send full benefits to low-income Americans despite the unresolved legal situation. US District Court Judge of Rhode Island John J. McConnell Jr. directed the government to use leftover federal money to fund SNAP entirely for the month of November. The judge accused the president and his aides of using the nutrition benefits as a political bargaining tool.

The president had just threatened to withhold aid from the program until Democrats gave in to his fiscal demands. If the US Court of Appeals rules in favor of Trump’s request to halt the requirement, many families will have their aid to purchase food severely cut or denied. The Trump administration argues that there is no “lawful basis” to force the president to find funds to support the program. The Trump administration is being greatly criticized by lawyers for cities, religious groups, and nonprofit organizations for the cruelty and “grave harm” being leveled on low-income citizens.

The shutdown of the government is reaching its sixth week, the longest in American history. It is unclear what will happen in states where full funding of SNAP benefits has been undertaken, if the appeals court sides with the Trump administration. The president has targeted SNAP for spending cuts, so although he has found billions of dollars without lawmakers’ approval to pay officials who are conducting deportations, he is willing to withhold funding from the nation’s most vulnerable families and hungry children. The Agriculture Department opted for partial funding of the program, but the conditions for the release of funding could take weeks or months and are unnecessarily difficult. Judge McConnell stated, “This should never happen in America.”

However, Representative Fong, this is where your party’s governance puts us. By ceding your power of the purse to the president, and by refusing to negotiate on important policy issues with the minority party, you are inflicting enormous pain and suffering on our nation.

Trump’s Meets With Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban

Representative Fong:

The Hill reported that Trump met with one of his favorite strong-man leaders, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban at the White House. Orban referred to a “golden age” of the relationship between Hungary and the United States under the Trump administration. Trump defended Orban to his European critics who complain of Hungary’s diminishing democracy. In the same breath, Trump was critical of Europe’s immigration policies. The visit was focused on Orban’s request to be exempted from Trump’s tariff on countries importing Russian oil and to avoid sanctions. Hungary uses the argument that his landlocked country makes oil imports from other countries difficult and costly, but his European neighbors believe he has not made an effort to diversify and that his reliance on Russian oil is purposeful.

Trump said many European nations still purchase oil from Russia, although European imports dropped from 40% in 2021 to 11% in 2024. Only Hungary and Slovakia have not reduced their reliance on Russian oil. Orban seems to have Trump convinced of his excuse, as Trump parroted that Hungarians “don’t have the advantage of having sea.” Trump spoke of his domestic critics who express concerns about affordability in the floundering American economy (which Trump outright denies despite a climbing inflation rate) and his desire to eliminate the filibuster.

Trump became irritated when a reporter mentioned that the Thanksgiving meal offered by Walmart this year contained less food than past years, accusing the reporter of “fake news.” He insisted that Americans are “feeling better about the country” and that prices have come down, although these statements are far from the truth for those who shop in the supermarkets. The Walmart meal this year serves more people but uses cheaper product brands and serves fewer dishes to give the illusion that the meal is more affordable.

Trump took advantage of the moment to repeat his message to Senate Republicans to abolish the filibuster, trying to alleviate Republican fears that the move would be detrimental to the future of the party if Democrats win a majority of the House or Senate in future elections. “The Democrats will do this so if the Democrats are going to do it, I’m saying Republicans should do it before they get a chance,” Trump said. He assured Republicans that they “will never lose a general election because we will have produced so many different things for our people, for the country, that it would be impossible to lose an election.” He said that without the filibuster, Republicans could pass measures regarding “voter ID laws, mail-in voting, and immigration.”

Most Republicans believe that eliminating the filibuster could backfire, so it is unlikely that the vote could pass. American citizens should pay attention to Trump’s focus on measures to disenfranchise some voters, which is his solution to making it impossible for Republicans to lose an election. He has already tried illegal means to overturn a free and fair election, and it is plausible that he will try again (just as he is signaling). Trump may be seeking advice from Viktor Orban who wins with 90% of the vote, while jailing his opponents and controlling the press.

Week of October 26th

Fong’s OP-ED to “The Daily Independent” October 24, 2025

Representative Fong:

I am writing in response to your Op-Ed to our local newspaper, “The Daily Independent” on October 24, 2025. We agree on one thing: that we must reopen the government immediately. However, I find it INFURIATING that you are putting that responsibility on Democrats when Republicans have made NO EFFORT to negotiate on the damaging issues that result from the bill THAT YOU VOTED TO PASS that “hurt the very people” (to quote you) that YOU WERE ELECTED TO PROTECT. You criticize Democrats for not voting for a clean, short-term funding option, when you know that if you trick them to reopen the government, nothing more than vague “discussions” have been promised, but absolutely no remedies to the healthcare crisis are being considered or offered.

You suddenly are concerned about federal employees receiving their paychecks when thousands have been fired from their positions since the beginning of the Trump administration. You are suddenly concerned about people who rely on social services who may not have access to them during the shutdown, yet you voted to cut services for millions of Americans across the nation. You are suddenly concerned about our GDP and the national debt, when the bill you voted to pass adds substantially to the debt. Your hypocrisy is jolting.

You quote Senator Shumer who said, “If the government shuts down, it will be average Americans who suffer most.” His words are accurate, but the reason the government is shut down is because President Trump rendered the Republican Congress impotent to govern the nation. He, along with Leader Johnson, took away the system of working in bipartisan fashion with Democrats. Democrats were not given a seat at the table for ANY OF THE DECISIONS THAT HAVE BEEN HEAPED UPON US SINCE Trump took office (what was it you said about “governing for ALL Americans?”). And now, when Democrats demand that they be heard, and that they work together with Republicans to solve the HUGE PROBLEMS THAT LIE AHEAD, Speaker Johnson and Trump told Republicans to go home! Consensus cannot be reached when Republicans are not even present! AND WHAT MAKES YOU THINK THAT THE ISSUES that Democrats are raising ARE “UNRELATED PARTISAN POLICIES?” I don’t think that cutting health care for millions of Americans is a partisan issue and it is CERTAINLY NOT UNRELATED to the well-being of the nation.

THE DISFUNCTION OF THE GOVERNMENT is squarely on the SHOULDERS OF REPUBLICANS who are in control of the government, the Republicans who have allowed Trump to take a wrecking ball to our system of government, the Republicans who have not stood up for the American people but who have stood idly by while their power as a co-equal branch of government has been obliterated. If you truly wanted the government to reopen, Representative Fong, you would be working day and night alongside your Democratic colleagues to find a way forward.

Trump Makes New Tariff Deals in Asia

Representative Fong:

As the president is making tariff deals during his Asian trip, Paul Krugman’s evaluation of Trump’s tariffs from an interview on August 7, 2025, with NPR should be considered. Mr. Krugman, a Nobel Prize winner in Economics, noted at the time that we were experiencing a slowdown in the economy with inflation moving upward.

Tariffs, which are selective sales taxes paid by US consumers, weigh most heavily on people in the bottom 30% or 40% of the population. Tariffs are the responsibility of CONGRESS, yet Congress is allowing the president to enact these taxes.

Nebraska Representative Mike Flood said he was giving the president until Christmas to get “these trade deals done.” Mr. Krugman indicated that the deal the president made with Europe with a 15% tariff on everything “doesn’t look like much of a deal.” In Krugman’s view, the “deals are largely a figment of Trump’s imagination.” He describes the situation as one in which the president imposes tariffs, countries say nice things to him in order to keep him from raising the tariffs even higher, and in the end nothing is actually done.

The courts could rule the entire process illegal which it is, especially the tariffs imposed for political purposes, but if the courts do not, the United States will be experiencing tariffs “as high as they were 90 years ago.” Krugman also sees the push of American industry to reshore (one of the president’s goals in enacting tariffs) to be very limited. Companies realize that it is in their best interest to give the impression that they’re doing a favor for the president by making announcements of investments. EU says it will invest $600 billion in US and promises to buy $750 billion in energy, an impossible promise. No written agreements have been actually produced with Japan when they said that $550 billion of investment was their “upper limit.” Meanwhile, Trump reported that Japan’s huge financial maximum commitment was a done deal.

The global trading system was built over many years, and the US has dismantled the system of agreements that it helped to create. Tariffs set by the whims of a president create chaos and uncertainty which is very bad for business and investment. Even worse, the trustworthiness of the US has been damaged to the point that if a future president wanted to undo the mess that has been created by Trump’s erratic tariffs, it would be nearly impossible to return to the time when an agreement was honored and the “General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade” was never violated. Krugman says, “This administration doesn’t care. They don’t even try to justify violating these agreements.”

Trump’s Asian Trip Speech to the US Military

Representative Fong:

According to the NYTimes, in President Trump’s partisan speech today to thousands of American troops in Japan, he announced he is prepared to send military troops into US cities to fight crime. Trump said, “We have cities that are troubled, we can’t have cities that are troubled and we’re sending in our National Guard, and if we need more than the National Guard, we’ll send more than the National Guard, because we’re going to have safe cities.” Trump clarified that “whether people like that or not, that’s what we’re doing.”

Trump also justified the recent Us military strikes against suspected Venezuelan drug smugglers. Thus far, more than 50 individuals have been killed by American troops. In several instances, survivors were rescued from the waters or boats and although the military insists that these individuals are engaged in illegal drug activity, the survivors were not apprehended for prosecution, but were released. What does that say about those on the same vessels who were killed?

It is not legal to use the military to target civilians, even criminal suspects, who are not engaged in hostile acts towards American troops. Even when journeying abroad, the president threatens to take military action against American citizens on American soil and defends his illegal attacks on Venezuelan vessels without providing evidence of wrongdoing.

Representative Fong, do you support Donald Trump’s plan to deploy the military to American cities to fight crime? Do you support our military’s brutal attacks on Venezuelan boats without evidence of wrongdoing and without any attempts to arrest and prosecute alleged suspects? If not, what do you and Congress plan to do to put a stop to them?

Trump’s Pardons and Commutations

Representative Fong:

Newsweek reported that close to a dozen GOP lawmakers, including former Congressman George Santos of New York, have been pardoned or had their sentences commuted by Trump. George Santos pleaded guilty to multiple counts of wire fraud, aggravated identify theft, campaign finance violations, and other financial crimes. He began serving his sentence of 87 months in federal prison in July. With Trump’s commutation, he was released less than three months into his sentence. Trump posted on Truth Social that “Santos had the courage, conviction, and intelligence to ALWAYS VOTE REPUBLICAN!” The US Constitution gives the president the power to “grant reprieves and pardons for offences against the United States, except in cases of impeachment” for federal crimes.

Trump has issued controversial pardons, including for 1,500 people convicted for their involvement in the January 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol to prevent the certification of election results. Interestingly, Pamela Hemphill, a now-enlightened January 6 participant, refused a pardon from Trump because she stated that accepting the pardon would be an insult to the rule of law. Trump commuted the sentences of more than a dozen other individuals involved in the Jan 6 violent riots, including members of the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys just moments after taking office again this year. Trump has commuted the sentences of many political allies, including some lawyers who were convicted of assisting the preparation of fraudulent tax returns, conspiracy to commit extortion, and money laundering, He pardoned billionaire Changpeng Zhao. founder of the crypto company Binance, who pleaded guilty to money laundering. Zhao is a major investor in the Trump family’s crypto business. During Trump’s first administration, he pardoned lawbreakers who worked in or were associated with his administration, such as Paul Manafort, Roger Stone, Michael Flynn, and Steve Bannon.

Trump seems to use this privilege of his office, not to achieve justice for individuals whose sentences may have been unduly harsh, but to support his long-running narrative of persecution, to cast doubt on the legitimacy of the system of justice, and to curry favor. He holds a strong belief that certain individuals, including himself, should not be held accountable for breaking our nation’s laws.

Trump Ends Trade Talks with Canada Over Reagan Anti-Tariff Ad

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that Trump cut trade negotiations with Canada because the province of Ontario paid for an ad in which former president Ronald Reagan criticizes the use of tariffs in a 1987 speech. The ad was widely seen when presented during US broadcasts of the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. Trump asserted that the ad was meant to influence the US Supreme Court which is considering a legal challenge to many of his tariffs. Although Trump tried to paint the ad as fake, it uses a recording of an actual radio address Mr. Reagan made in April 1987. President Reagan was a proponent of free trade and continues to be held as a popular Republican figure, even though the party is now fully under protectionist Trump who has imposed the most tariffs on US imports since the Great Depression.

Trump has dismantled world trade by imposing tariffs on allies as well as adversaries. Americans now face an overall tariff rate of 18 percent, the highest level since 1934. In his free trade speech, President Reagan said that protectionism would eventually slow innovation and prompt retaliation from trading partners. President Reagan warned, “Then the worst happens: Markets shrink and collapse; businesses and industries shut down; and millions of people lose their jobs.” The ad is effective in depicting the degree to which Trump has transformed GOP politics regarding trade to support tariffs. Apparently, Trump does not approve of a focus on the contrast of his policies and Reagan’s and has now (again) taken issue with Canada.

Deaths at the Hands of ICE

Representative Fong:

The American Immigration Council reported that at least 23 people have been officially reported by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to have died while in custody this fiscal year. The first year of Trump’s second administration has been deadlier than 2020 when COVID-19 contributed to a high death toll in detention facilities. The rise in deaths has been caused by serious overcrowding, extraordinarily poor detention conditions, medical neglect, soaring mental distress, and gun violence. The number of people detained in ICE facilities has increased by almost 50% in less than one year.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) incarcerates close to 60,000 people as the administration attempts mass detentions and deportations. Most facilities exceed their contractual capacities resulting in inhumane conditions. A windowless cell can be used to hold 35 to 40 men who share a single toilet with no privacy and sleep on concrete floors.

In some facilities, food consists of a cup of rice and a glass of water each day. Reports of facilities serving rotten food have been made. Overcrowding and poor hygiene spread disease, and medical neglect can prove fatal. NPR reported that a man with a “serious eye infection for almost two weeks” and a “fever” was denied medication for both conditions. A Chinese national died in custody after suffering a seizure. A healthy young man who entered a facility became unable to walk after a few months of detention, was prescribed antibiotics and pain medication, but rarely received his prescriptions. They were taken from him when he was transferred to different facilities. His condition became so severe that he had to be taken to medical care in a wheelchair with assistance from fellow detainees. Three of the reported deaths were suicides. Two people detained by ICE were killed from gun violence when a gunman opened fire on an ICE facility, the third shooting at a federal immigration facility in Texas in recent months.

Although detainees and their families have raised awareness of these conditions, ICE accountability is minimal. Even with court orders to improve conditions for detainees, very poor conditions persist. ICE has released detainees who are critically ill to avoid taking responsibility for their deaths! The Trump administration shut down numerous oversight offices but recently reversed its decision to shutter the offices completely following litigation. These deplorable conditions must stop. Are we not the United States of America?

Trump Calls for Prosecution of Biden-Era Justice Officials

Representative Fong:

CBS News reported that in a Truth Social post Trump accused former Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, Special Counsel Jack Smith, and Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco of authorizing an FBI investigation of nine Republican lawmakers’ telephone records. Trump did not specify what crimes he believes these four Justice Department individuals committed. Trump continues to encourage the Department of Justice to probe his political enemies. Last month, he called for investigation of former FBI Director James Comey, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and Democratic Senator Adam Schiff. Comey and James have been criminally indicted since Trump’s public urging of Attorney General Pam Bondi to move forward with the investigations.

The GOP-controlled Judiciary Committee reported that in 2023, an investigation called “Arctic Frost” was conducted into Mr. Trump and his allies for attempting to overturn the 2020 election results. Although the calls were investigated, their content was NOT included in the investigation. Only information regarding the individuals called and the length of the calls was collected. Jack Smith called his actions “entirely lawful, proper and consistent with established Department of Justice policy” in a letter to Senator Chuck Grassley who expressed his outrage over the handling of “Arctic Frost.” The calls in question were the ones made several days before and after the January 6, 2021 insurrection when Mr. Trump pressed lawmakers to vote against certifying Biden’s election win while rioters at the Capitol interrupted the certification process.

Trump was charged for conspiring to overturn the election results, but the case was dropped after Trump won the election the following year because the Justice Department holds a legal opinion that sitting presidents cannot face federal prosecution. The calls appeared to be part of an effort to talk congressional Republicans into blocking Biden’s victory, using the violence and chaos at the Capitol to convince lawmakers to delay the certification with false claims of election fraud. OF COURSE, the Department of Justice should have investigated this unlawful attempt to overturn a free and fair election.

Week of October 12th

Trump Builds His Case for Militarization of American Cities

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that Trump is bolstering his case for deploying the National Guard to various cities, such as Chicago and Portland, by accusing Democrat politicians of failing to protect ICE agents and journalists from left-wing domestic terrorists. He is pursuing designating “antifa,” an anti-fascist movement as a “foreign terrorist organization.” With this designation of a “foreign” entity, those accused of ascribing to the ideology would not be protected by the First Amendment and would be subject to financial and legal penalties.

Homeland Security Secretary Noem said the decentralized ideology antifa is “just as sophisticated as” MS-13, Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Islamic State. Her characterization only serves to create fear and panic. Trump has accused Democratic leaders of failing to protect ICE officers, saying they should be serving time for the offense. Using these issues, the president is justifying his call to deploy troops to American cities.

Although the president has called for the jailing of his political opponents many times in the past, he is now actually pushing the Justice Department to pursue prosecutions, resulting in the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey. Today on MSNBC the president and other Republican leaders criticized protestors as hating America. Mike Johnson called the upcoming national protest “outrageous,” not a demonstration of the democratic process.

The president says that protest posters are of such quality with like colors to indicate they are being produced by wealthy benefactors. As someone who exercises her right to express opposing political views, and who makes (along with other community members) signs on posterboard using a home computer or hand-written with indelible ink (most often in patriotic red, white, and blue colors), I found the president’s statement to be absolutely HILARIOUS! Facing the rising costs of printer ink, we wish we had someone to help to produce posters! We are protesting because we LOVE our country, Representative Fong! As of now, PEACEFUL PROTEST IS STILL LAWFUL and cannot be squashed, even when National Guard troops are present to intimidate.

Nobel Peace Prize Awarded to Maria Corina Machado

Representative Fong:

Newsweek reported that Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her leadership in challenging authoritarian rule. Trump was nominated for the prize based on his diplomatic efforts to achieve peace between Israel and Hamas, the agreement for which was reached just as the announcement for the Nobel prize was made. Ms. Machado was awarded the prize for her activism to advance democracy in Venezuela in face of threats from the Maduro regime.

The White House was very critical of the Nobel Prize Committee for not awarding Trump the prize. White House Communication Director Cheung said the committee “places politics over peace.” Trump has claimed he is responsible for ending multiple international conflicts between Israel and Iran, Thailand and Cambodia, and India and Pakistan. Russian President Putin commented that Trump was passed over for the award when he is “doing a lot to resolve such complex crises.” Trump shared Putin’s praise on social media. He congratulated Machado by phone, after she expressed gratitude to him for his support. However, only hours before the award was announced, Trump criticized the receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize by President Barack Obama, saying that it was “undeserved” and that his achievements surpassed those of Obama. For Trump, winning the glory of the prize far surpasses any achievement of peace.

Frustration Over the Government Shutdown

Representative Fong:

USA Today reported that with more than two weeks of the shutdown of our government, no movement has been made to end it. Speaker Johnson has not called Republican members of the House to attempt to negotiate with Democrats. Accusations are being made that the Speaker is avoiding a vote on releasing more information on the Epstein files. Tensions continue to escalate with Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries yelling, “Keep your mouth shut,” at Republican Congressman Mike Lawler over the extension of expiring health insurance subsidies. The shutdown is the first in seven years and may be the longest. The House has not voted in three weeks, and the Senate has not worked through a weekend since the end of the fiscal year on September 30.

On October 15, military service members will miss their first paycheck since the start of the shutdown. A food aid program on which millions of mothers and infants depend will run out of funding. Key economic data to calculate Social Security payments for 70 million Americans are not being prepared.

Arizona Senators Reuben Gallego and Mark Kelly confronted the House Speaker for refusing to swear in a new Democratic congresswoman from their state during the shutdown. Once Rep-elect Adelita Grijalva takes office, enough votes will be available to pass a measure to force the DOJ to release more Epstein files. The Senators believe the Speaker is intentionally delaying the process. The exchange became so heated that security guards, staff members, and reporters became attentive to the situation. Speaker Johnson took calls from the public on CSPAN, and he was widely criticized about the situation. It is the responsibility of the majority leaders to work with the minority party to find solutions. No effort is being made by Speaker Johnson. Reports of back-channel discussions between Senators for a resolution to the health care issues for which Democrats have been fighting may be happening, so we can hope. However, in an administration which thrives on chaos and disruption, it is difficult to feel optimistic.

Qatar Training Facility on Air Force Base in Idaho

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reported that Qatar will build a training facility at an Air Force Base in Idaho. The facility will consist of a group of buildings to manage training and maintenance for Qatari troops. The agreement has been in the works since 2017. Air Force spokesperson Ann Stefanek said, “It is definitely still a US Air Force base.” Training agreements are common in the US, such as with the Republic of Singapore and Germany. The Qatari base will be about 50 miles from Boise and will be built by local construction crews, but the construction costs will be funded by Qatar. Security will be handled by the US Air Force. The base will provide training in military operations and will house trainees and their families.

Some right-wing Trump allies are not in favor of the plan. Laura Loomer, a Trump supporter and influencer, said, “No foreign country should have a military base on US soil. Especially Islamic countries.” During a similar training agreement, a Saudi Air Force officer in Florida killed three US service members and wounded several others in a mass shooting. The US sent 21 military personnel home after they had expressed jihadist or anti-American sentiments on social media following the incident.

Other critics suspect the agreement for the training facility was finalized because of the “gift” of a $400 million jumbo jet that the Qatari government presented to Trump.

The US sells defense equipment and services to other countries as part of its foreign policy. Working in conjunction with allies or friendly nations to train them in the use of the equipment we provide makes sense. Building rapport with other nations enhances our own troop safety. Defense One, however, reported that the Qatar training construction goes beyond most aviation training arrangements that the US has with allies and foreign allies. Katherine Kuzminski, director of studies at the Center for a New American Security think tank, said that it is “rare” for the Pentagon to build a facility for another military on US soil. She added that the administration can set foreign policy, but Congress needs to have a say in “funding, authorizing, and overseeing decisions from the executive branch regarding both basing decisions and international military training and education…”

Hegseth had to clarify his original announcement of the facility by stating, “Qatar will not have their own base in the United States—nor anything like a base. We control the existing base, like we do with all partners.” It is unknown why it was announced in such a way to bring so much attention to it. Trump signed an executive order last month saying the US would protect the “security and territorial integrity of the State of Qatar against external attack” (in essence giving Qatar NATO status!), following Israel’s attack on Qatar during its war on Hamas.

Federal Department of Education Layoffs Impact Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Representative Fong:

According to USA Today, in a wave of new layoffs, the US Department of Education has fired nearly all personnel in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services. The reduction of personnel will harm students in Kindergarten through Grade 12, despite Secretary of Education Linda McMahon’s promise to safeguard students with disabilities and ensure they have access to educational resources that have been legally provided for them. The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is the primary federal law supporting students with disabilities. Federal oversight of services for students with disabilities is crucial for their educational success. Secretary McMahon had proposed moving the oversight to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) which would place emphasis on student health rather than on education. Congress would have to approve moving the oversight, however.

I am opposed to placing oversight for special education services on HHS. The decision for additional layoffs was a tactic to pressure Democrats to end the government shutdown and was not a sound decision. The government should not be playing political games with the education of our children.

Trump Makes Flag Burning an Offense No Longer Protected Under Freedom of Speech

Representative Fong:

USA Today reported that on October 8 Donald Trump announced that, “We took the freedom of speech away because that’s been through the courts, and the courts said you have freedom of speech but what has happened is when they burn the flag it agitates and irritates crowds.” On August 25 Trump issued an executive order that directed his administration to prosecute people who burn the American flag, our “most sacred and cherished symbol,” saying its desecration is “uniquely offensive and provocative.”

The US Supreme Court ruled that flag burning is protected and that First Amendment rights are not limited to verbal or written speech. Government cannot prohibit expression of an idea simply because society finds it offensive or disagreeable. Flag burning is constitutionally protected speech.

Trump, however, says “when you burn an American flag, you incite tremendous violence.” Attorney General Pam Bondi believes she could prosecute flag burnings “without running afoul of the First Amendment.” Just after the signing of the executive order, a man burning a flag outside the White House was arrested for violating National Park Service fire policy which prohibits setting fires. As has been the case, Trump tests the waters to see how far he can go with the courts to reach his ultimate objectives, and it seems that limiting Americans’ freedom of speech is one of his goals.

Trump Threatens to Enact the Insurrection Act

Representative Fong:

ABC News and many other outlets reported that Trump says he would consider declaring an “insurrection” inside the US because Democratic governors and mayors are preventing the federal government from enforcing immigration laws and allowing lawlessness in cities that are like “war zone.” If the president invokes the Insurrection Act, he would have extraordinary power to use military force in American cities which has not been used since the Civil Rights Movement under Lyndon Johnson in 1965 and at the request of a governor in 1992 to quell riots in California following the acquittal of police officers who beat black motorist Rodney King.

Potentially, troops from southern Republican states could be used against northern Democratic-run cities which symbolically will appear to be a type of retribution for the outcome of the Civil War.

Under the law, the president can use military troops to protect federal buildings and federal employees. However, the troops can only enforce domestic law while under control of the state’s governors. A major exception for this troop constraint would be under the Insurrection Act. Governors of states that the president has described as beds of civil unrest and chaos argue that the portrayal of their cities is inaccurate. If Trump attempted to invoke the Insurrection Act, courts would require that evidence be provided. Governor Pritzker of Illinois believes that invoking the Insurrection Act is part of Trump’s plan to make it appear that peaceful protesters are an uncontrollable mob. According to Kuzminski with the Center for a New American Security, the lethal fighting force of our nation should have “firm boundaries on their use in law enforcement.” Trump’s threat to invoke the Insurrection Act is particularly troubling considering the huge number of protests that are appearing across the nation in response to his policies.

Week of October 5th

Trump’s Racist Meme

Representative Fong:

The Hill reported that president has issued an AI-doctored meme of Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries wearing a sombrero and mustache to allude to the administration’s FALSE claim that Democrats are demanding free health care for immigrants who are in the country illegally. Speaker Mike Johnson told Leader Jeffries that he should IGNORE the “sideshow” from the White House.

JD Vance told Leader Jeffries that the sombrero memes, WHICH HE VIEWS AS FUNNY, NOT BIGOTED, will stop when Democrats are willing to vote to reopen the government. They don’t seem to understand that stereotyping immigrants from Latin America in this way is insulting to millions of people living in our country.

Mike Johnson likened the meme to one that Gavin Newsom posted of him as a make-believe cartoon character, a minion, from the film “Despicable Me,” to which he did not take offense. Of course he would not!

Oversimplified, negative generalizations about an entire group of people, and not even seeing that ANYTHING IS WRONG WITH IT coming from the president of the United States (wasn’t the first lady’s project in Trump’s first administration an online anti-bullying campaign?) with total support from all of the president’s men is a MAJOR PROBLEM WITH THEIR LEADERSHIP, the leadership they provide for ONLY those that they perceive as belonging in this country. This is insulting and beneath the office of president of the United States of America. Won’t you stand against it, Representative Fong?

Military-Style ICE Raid in Chicago

Representative Fong:

TIME reported that last week on the South Shore of Chicago, armed federal agents rappelled from helicopters onto the roof of a five-story residential building, working their way through the complex, breaking down doors, throwing flash-bang grenades, while rounding up adults and children. Dozens were arrested, detained in zip-ties, including children, who were separated from their parents after being pulled from their beds in the surprise raid. Military-style raids are totally unnecessary in dealing with immigrants and to include children in the United States of America is appalling.

Illinois Governor Pritzker reminded us that the United States should be “a bastion of freedom, hope, and the rights of our people as guaranteed by the Constitution.” The Department of Homeland Security, who said 900 arrests have been made in the Chicago operation since early September, believe the raids are necessary to arrest those who are involved in drug trafficking, weapon crimes, and illegal immigration. The apartment building in Chicago was targeted because it is “known to be frequented by Tren de Aragua members and their associates.” However, no names and evidence have been released.

The Trump administration ordered Governor Pritzker to call up the National Guard within his state borders to control “ongoing violent riots and lawlessness.” When he refused, the president deployed the troops for what Governor Pritzker said is “a manufactured performance.” The ACLU of Illinois reported that the federal government is escalating force and violence in Chicago. As a result of the escalation, protests have increased over ICE operations, and a woman was shot by Border Patrol agents outside a detention facility. Agents stated that they fired defensively when the suspect tried to run them over. The woman was a US citizen. Chicago Alderperson Jesse Fuentes was handcuffed by immigration officials at a medical facility when she questioned agents about their warrant to arrest at the medical center. Trump only recently made the statement, “We are under invasion from within, no different than a foreign enemy, but more difficult in many ways because they don’t wear uniforms.” Will no one in the Republican-led Congress stand against the militarization of American cities?

Ending the Government Shutdown

Representative Fong:

Politico reported that in order for Democrats to vote to reopen the government they want assurances for movement on appropriations bills AND guardrails to prevent the Trump administration from diminishing Congress’s power of the purse. They also want a commitment to extend the expanded Affordable Care Act tax credits which will expire at the end of the year, causing premiums to skyrocket and forcing millions of Americans to drop their medical coverage.

Speaker Mike Johnson spoke to top Democrat Senator Patty Murray on the Appropriations Committee about facilitating BIPARTISAN negotiations on government funding, but only once the shutdown ends. Senator Murray indicated that talks with Minority Leader Chuck Shumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries are mandatory to start the process. These assurances from Speaker Johnson were an effort to pressure Democrats to vote to reopen the government. The issue is whether Speaker Johnson can be trusted to follow through on his promises. A fifth vote was conducted this evening but was not successful in reopening the government. Republicans have rejected the demands for health care priorities and for restricting Trump from reversing congressionally approved funding.

Senate Majority Leader Thune reiterated that he will only negotiate on the health care tax credit once the government is reopened. However, he warned that although he can promise a discussion on the issue, he cannot guarantee a deal because it will have to pass in the House AND have TRUMP’S APPROVAL From past experience, Democrats certainly have difficulty believing that Trump will be on board WITH HIS RECORD OF COLLABORATION and his view of working in the best interests of ALL AMERICANS. Therefore, the federal funding debacle continues.

Departure of Generals Following Hegseth’s Speech to Military

Representative Fong:

The Hill reported that Defense Secretary Hegseth’s speech to hundreds of top military leaders may result in many retiring or resigning from their positions. Hegseth pointedly spoke of his vision, referring to “woke garbage” as being detrimental to the culture of all the branches of the military. In addition to excising “woke” culture, he proposed less restrictive rules of engagement, fewer waivers for having a beard (for which African American soldiers apply frequently because of a skin condition typical in their race), changes to how allegations of abuse such as hazing are addressed, allowing drill sergeants to “put their hands on recruits,” and curtailing functions of whistleblowers and inspector generals.

Hegseth urged military leaders to resign if they were not pleased with the changes he was proposing. Since the speech, two senior military leaders have chosen to leave, General Thomas Bussiere, head of Air Force Global Strike Command, and General Bryan Fenton, US Special Operations Command based at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, FL. Gen Bussiere was appointed by Trump and was nominated to serve as the vice chief of staff for the Air Force, but his nomination was retracted. He gave “personal and family reasons” for his departure, saying that his decision to leave the military was a difficult one. General Fenton chose to retire. Advisor to Hegseth, Kristina Wong, said his decision was not related to Hegseth’s speech.

Hegseth promised to fire top brass who did not align with his vision. He fired Jon Harrison, the chief of staff to the Secretary of the Navy, an appointee during Trump’s first administration, citing his goal of eliminating those who were instrumental in establishing the military culture in the previous administration. Senior fellow with the German Marshall Fund Carrie Lee believes other retirement announcements will follow as officers determine whether the institution’s new values reflect their own. Michael O’Hanlon, a senior fellow in foreign policy at the Brookings Institution, doubts a mass exodus will occur, but he believes widespread anxiety is present in the armed forces as they consider the direction of the military and the country, and worry they will be asked to violate their oath or the law. Americans should find these serious distractions of the leaders of our military highly concerning.

Ex-DOJ Staff Demand Oversight

Representative Fong:

Axios reported that following a mass exodus of career officials from the Department of Justice with concerns for integrity of the department’s work, more than 275 former employees are demanding that Congress increase oversight over the department. The letter submitted one day prior to Attorney General Pam Bondi’s congressional hearing indicates that the department “cannot uphold the rule of law when it carries out the President’s retribution campaign and protects his allies, violates court orders and evades due process requirements, directs attorneys to violate their ethical responsibilities, and fires its employees without notice or cause in violation of civil service laws.” The letter continues about the safety of the nation when offices that prevent community violence and drug trafficking are shuttered and FBI employees, ATF officials, national security experts, and attorneys who enforce laws and protect the environment are ousted. Highly trained special agents are being taken away from counterintelligence and counterterrorism. The department cannot protect civil rights when 75% of attorneys from the Civil Rights Division have been driven out and used instead against marginalized people.

The department plans to eliminate the Tax Division which normally saves billions of dollars by pursuing tax evaders. The Public Integrity division and FBI public corruption squads have been gutted, allowing for graft and corruption. In addition to its plea to Congress, the letter requests “all Americans—whose safety, prosperity, and rights depend on a strong DOJ—to speak out against its destruction.”

Attorney General Congressional Hearing

Representative Fong:

PBS reported that Attorney General Bondi provided very little information at her congressional hearing this week. She touted the department’s actions since taking office earlier this year but provided no legal justifications or answers to ethics violations. To deflect answering questions on subjects posed by various Democratic lawmakers, she responded instead, as Democratic Senator Peter Welch of Vermont said, with “something in THEIR background” that was vague but put in terms that insinuated wrongdoing. Clearly, she Bondi armed herself with information about the lawmakers in preparation for the hearing. Republicans, such as Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, praised Bondi, attempting to put blame of the accusations regarding the weaponization of the Justice Department on the previous administration. The notion that the only reason Trump was a constant target for investigation was for politics is a consistent theme among Republicans. However, the evidence of lawbreaking was overwhelming enough to merit multiple investigations. His supposed “transparency” in discussing his misdeeds became a message that if one talks about activity that skirts the law or bypasses the Constitution, then it must be okay. CRIME MUST NOT BECOME NORMALIZED. Not hiding crime as Trump does in his speeches and posts does not make it suddenly LEGAL. Bondi criticized senator Dick Durbin for grilling her on deployment of National Guard troops in his home state of Illinois and he had to remind her, “it’s my job to grill you” with legitimate questions about legal issues. Bondi refused to answer questions about her loyalty to Trump rather than to the Constitution, her politicization of the Department of Justice, requiring career prosecutors to commit unethical actions, and the evidence of Border Tsar Tom Homan’s acceptance of $50,000 in cash from undercover FBI agents in exchange for future government contracts. Senator Schiff asked the million-dollar question, “When will it be that the members of this committee, on a bipartisan basis, demand answers to those questions, and refuse to accept personal slander as an answer to those questions?” Bondi actually asked Senator Adam Schiff, who prosecuted Trump in the first impeachment trial of his first administration for brazenly attempting to extort the president of Ukraine by withholding congressionally appropriated funding in exchange for negative information on his political opponent, if he would APOLOGIZE TO DONALD TRUMP! The idea that Trump is owed an apology for being held to account for breaking the law boggles the mind! Senators Hirono and Klobuchar asked about the president’s social media post of September 20 in which he complained about inaction in investigating his political opponents. In the post, while also referring to his two impeachments, he addresses Pam Bondi saying, “We can’t delay any longer, it’s killing our reputation and credibility. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!” Bondi refused to address any conversations she has had with the president.

Trump Posts Message that Governor Pritzker and Mayor Johnson Should Be Jailed

Representative Fong: CBS News reported the president posted on Truth Social that Governor Pritzker of Illinois and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson “should be in jail.” Their offense according to Trump is their failure to protect US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. Governor Pritzker responded by saying the president is unhinged for making such a comment and pretending that he can “arrest people for no reason at all.” Mayor Johnson agreed with the assessment, saying the president is a threat to democracy and that Chicagoans will “defend all of Chicago.” Approximately 200 Texas National Guard troops have landed in Chicago and another 300 troops from the Illinois National Guard have been deployed by Trump for 60 days to protect federal agents and buildings in the Chicago area. Trump’s call for Illinois National Guard troops was not requested by the governor and were called despite his objections. The state and city of Chicago have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the deployment. ICE agents are raiding and arresting immigrants on a daily basis and the people of Chicago have been protesting against ICE actions. The mayor signed an executive order to prohibit ICE and other federal agencies from using city property for civil immigration enforcement. They may not use city-owned lots and garages as staging areas, processing locations, or operation centers. In the last few weeks more than a dozen protesters have been arrested. The governor of Minnesota Tim Walz announced that “US citizens who are brown or Black are being stopped only for that reason and asked for identification that proves they’re a US citizen.” Both Walz and Pritzker believe blue states are being targeted. Pritzker is calling governors nationwide to denounce these National Guard deployments. Governor Pritzker is willing to withdraw from the National Governors Association if governors remain silent on the issue. I believe that by taking a stand against Trump’s attacks on democracy, leaders and citizens have the power to put a stop to Trump’s unlawful behavior. That would prove true of Congress as well.

Week of September 28th

Indictment of James Comey

Representative Fong: Politico reported that the indictment of James Comey, former FBI director during the first Trump administration which was ordered by President Trump is another sad turning point in the break between the executive branch and the Department of Justice. The prosecutor put in place to do the president’s bidding is inexperienced Lindsay Halligan, who put forth a very weak case against Comey, one in which a conviction will be very difficult to reach. The president’s overt political pressure to bring the indictment and Halligan’s inexperience, not to mention lack of evidence, are among the obstacles to the case. It is abundantly clear that the president is seeking retribution against his former FBI Director. He worked towards ousting the former US attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia who refused to bring charges against Comey because of insufficient evidence. Other cases against Trump’s political adversaries will certainly follow. Those who turn a blind eye to this unlawful behavior say that the cases brought against Trump were politically motivated, saying the previous administration weaponized the Justice Department. However, the former president did not call for the indictment of Trump. He did not force out a prosecutor who had reservations about bringing charges. According to CNN, the bottom line is Trump and his allies pushed the LIMITS OF LAW to commit crimes, so one would expect criminal charges to be brought. In the case of Trump and his associates, when charges were brought, they resulted in CONVICTIONS OR GUILTY PLEAS in the majority of instances. The evidence supported the claims. Trump was found guilty on 34 felony counts in the ONE INDICTMENT THAT WENT TO TRIAL. For the cases that didn’t make it to trial, even Republicans considered them serious. Seven Republican senators voted to convict him in his impeachment for the January 6, 2021 insurrection. Others believed he was guilty but voted to acquit because of a technicality. In the classified documents case, some of Trump’s cabinet officials believed the charges were legitimate, including Attorney General William Barr who agreed with obstruction of justice charges against Trump in his refusal to return the classified documents. Trump’s Defense Secretary Esper said that Trump’s actions jeopardized national security, and he should have been held accountable. We have now joined the ranks of countries who operate at the behest of a tyrant, rather than on the rule of law. Another shameful day for America!

Recognition of a Palestinian State

Representative Fong: The NYTimes reported that many of the delegates to the United Nations boycotted Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech in which he stated that recognizing Palestine as a state would be devastating to Israel. The UN delegates who were present at the start of the speech walked out in defiance. Netanyahu has rejected Palestinian statehood for many years. However, at this time of worldwide condemnation of his ruthless treatment of the people of Gaza, support for a two-state solution has grown. Many countries in the west have held out about a call for Palestinian statehood, but recently Britain, France, and Canada have recognized Palestine along with a majority of UN members. The United States is the only member of the UN Security Council that has refused to recognize Palestine, maintaining its alliance with Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu has a warrant for his arrest by the International Criminal Court for war crime charges. He avoided traveling over the airspace of France and Spain which are signatories to the charges, not risking landing in these countries where he would face arrest. During Netanyahu’s speech, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of New York City to denounce the war in Gaza. The war has caused vast destruction of Gaza and a death toll of 65,000 which includes many civilians. Hunger is widespread. Netanyahu complains that the world is not remembering what happened to Israelis on October 7 two years ago. In reality, the world was horrified by the cruel attack, slaughter, and abduction of Israeli citizens by Hamas and continue to be sympathetic to the plight of the remaining 20 hostages that are held in unknown locations. However, Netanyahu’s furious attack with no regard to the civilians caught in the crossfire and his displacement of residents of Gaza is genocide. He is calling for annexation of the occupied West Bank and Gaza, which is widely opposed by Arab leaders. Trump has said he would not “allow Israel to annex the West Bank.” For now, this terribly tragic situation is not close to a resolution. The latest proposal for ending the war at least allows Palestinians to remain in Gaza, who in the past Trump believed should be relocated, all two million of them. This proposal also contains a pathway to a Palestinian state, a departure from the White House’s previous position. We can hope.

Hegseth Calls All Top Military Officers to Washington

Representative Fong: The Washington Post reported that Defense Secretary Hegseth has called an urgent meeting of hundreds of top generals and admirals from around the globe. No reason was provided for the very unusual meeting that was called on short notice. Because numerous senior officers were fired earlier in the year, the call for the meeting has led to confusion and concern. The meeting is scheduled on the same day of a potential government shutdown. Suspicions abound that Hegseth is altering the status of the military as a nonpartisan institution. The cost of bringing roughly 800 officers and their military advisors, likely more than 1,000 individuals, to Washington for what will amount to a relatively brief meeting is expensive and could have been conducted with the use of existing technology. Some speaking on condition of anonymity said that security concerns of so many leaving their posts have also arisen. No information regarding the transport and housing of the convened military personnel was provided. Hegseth did not say initially whether the president would attend the meeting, but the president indicated later that he would be in attendance. The president and vice president attempted to downplay the unprecedented meeting, saying it was “not particularly unusual.” However, the call for this mysterious meeting comes after reference to the Department of Defense as the Department of War, and a reduction of general officers by 20 percent through consolidation of top military commands. Fears of further firings have been discussed among the commanders, who believe they could be released from their commands based simply on their past social media posts. Since the potential for government shutdowns loom on the same day, some attending the meeting were concerned they would be stranded without transportation to return to their posts. With focus on China in recent years as a major security threat to the nation, speculation of a change in national defense with emphasis on homeland security has also been discussed. In any case, Americans are feeling great unease about the meeting and the future of our armed forces.

More Russian Incursions Over Norway, Denmark, and Alaska

Representative Fong: Newsweek reported that North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) detected four Russian military planes off Alaska last Wednesday. American fighter jets were deployed to identify and intercept the aircraft. Despite their location, they remained in international airspace and did not enter US or Canadian territory. The detection of Russian aircraft in proximity to Alaska has occurred three times in roughly one month. Russian recent incursions into airspace of Poland, Romania, Estonia, and even airports in Denmark and Norway (leading to travel disruptions) seem to be a means to probe and assess enemy territory and reaction time, and to provoke NATO members for their support of Ukraine. Trump has indicated that he believes NATO allies should shoot down Russian drones that fly over their airspace. However, countries must consider the danger to citizens when making decisions to destroy unmanned aircraft. NBC News reported that the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier is situated off the coast of Norway as part of a multinational operation in response to Russia’s unprecedented incursions in NATO airspace. Germany announced that Russia also overflew a German warship in recent days following Estonia’s call for Article 4 which prompts urgent talks among NATO allies. NATO indicated that they are not engaged in military exercises, but more in “enhanced vigilance activity.” Americans should be aware that the situation is increasingly tense as changes in the world order from Trump’s shift away from our NATO allies have contributed to greater instability.

Reactions to Hegseth’s Military Meeting

Representative Fong: ABC News reported that the “male standard” fitness tests that Hegseth addressed in his speech to top military officials to avoid “a bad look” of our military by having “fat generals and admirals in the halls of the Pentagon and leading commands around the world” will apply to everyone in uniform. Physical training will be required daily which will be enforced by commanders. Troops will also have to take two fitness tests per year, which includes an annual general service fitness test that accounts for age. The fitness standards that currently exist were determined by each branch of the military, as well as the frequency of annual tests. The US Army and Air Force had already put in place the requirement for two fitness tests per year, after receipt of a memo from Hegseth which ordered a review of physical fitness. A required passing score of 70% must be met by all military personnel, male and female; however, age is considered. Hegseth also indicated that in 60 days new guidance for standards for height and weight would be issued. If military are assigned a combat role, one of the two tests will be a combat field test. Those personnel who are not in combat roles may be required to take a combat readiness test as a substitute for one of their two tests. Body composition will be evaluated twice a year and if personnel exceed the limits, remedial programs will be required, or they will be separated from their service. All tests will be “gender neutral” which may lead to fewer women serving in combat roles. Hegseth said, “If that means no women qualify for some combat jobs, so be it.” The Guardian reported that veterans found Hegseth’s speech to be beneath the vast experience of the men in uniform who lectured them on warrior ethos and the perils of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Hegseth asserted that senior officers of color had benefitted from a non-existent quota system for promotions. Veterans felt the call for a face-to-face speech was egotistical and could have been delivered without the waste of resources amounting to millions. Amy McGrath, a retired Marine pilot and former Senate candidate indicated, “…there has never been a separate male and female standard. When women entered combat roles, one standard was set, and we’ve been meeting it ever since. You can either do the job, or you can’t. Period.” A former Navy technician Tamara Stevens said Hegseth’s comments on lethality, “saying we’re no better than Hamas because people are joining because they want to break things and they want to kill people,” was most offensive. She asked, “Has he no honor, to say that we don’t belong in polite society?” The Hill reported that Ranking member of the Senate Committee on Armed Forces Jack Reed said that Hegseth essentially told senior officers that they needed to conform to the administration’s political worldview or leave their posts. “It signals that partisan loyalty matters more than capability, judgment, or service to the Constitution, undermining the principle of a professional, nonpartisan military.” Senator Tammy Duckworth was alarmed by Hegseth’s comments on weakening rules of engagement which would make it more likely that captured troops would be tortured and of hazing, a practice from which American troops have died. The NYTimes reported that Trump’s address to the top brass threatened to fire generals he didn’t like and that military could use “dangerous” US cities as “training ground.” Mentioning numerous cities, all in Democrat-led states, Trump said, “And we’re going to straighten them out one by one, and this is going to be a major part for some of the people in this room.” He continued, “That’s a war too. It’s a war from within.” No American, Republican or Democrat, should be on board with Trump’s and his administration’s vision for the armed forces.

Government Shutdown

Representative Fong: NBC News reported that with the government shutdown, Russell Vought, head of OMB announced that the government workers who are typically furloughed during a shutdown will be fired and the firings will be massive. The NYTimes reported that Trump sees the shutdown as “an unprecedented opportunity” to make sweeping cuts to funding to Democrat-led states. Having been left out of the governing process, Democrats did not vote to keep the government open with hopes to use the leverage to negotiate with their colleagues across the aisle to reverse the severe cuts to Medicaid and health care for the American people. Although Trump said throughout his campaign that he had nothing to do with Project 2025, he has embraced the plans to dismantle the federal government and even admitted it in light of the shutdown. “I have a meeting today with Russ Vought, he of Project 2025 fame to determine which of the many Democrat Agencies, most of which are a political scam, he recommends to be cut, and whether or not those cuts will be temporary or permanent,” he said. Another huge lie told to the American people now inflicts further harm on our way of life, rips away our freedoms, and further supports the unchecked power of an autocratic president.

National Security Presidential Memorandum NSPM-7: “Domestic Terrorism” and “Organized Political Violence”

Representative Fong: On September 25, 2025, the president signed a memorandum which describes recent political violence, using ONLY as examples acts perpetrated against conservatives to justify the creation of a “national strategy to investigate and disrupt networks, entities, and organizations that foment political violence.” The memorandum targets individuals and organizations on the ideological left, asserting they support “anti-Christianity,” “extremism on migration, race, and gender,” and “hostility towards those who hold traditional American views on family, religion, and morality.” Federal agencies are to focus on, investigate, and prosecute those who are ideologically opposed to the administration’s actions and policies to prevent vague activity which is labeled “domestic terrorism.” Earlier this week an executive order was issued which designates Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. Antifa is not actually an organization, but as former FBI Director Christopher Wray described it, as “a movement or an ideology” in which individuals are opposed to fascism. Fascism is defined as a far-right, authoritarian, and ultra-national ideology characterized by dictatorial leadership, forceful oppression of opposition, militarism, and strict regulation of society and economy. Standing against fascism should not be illegal! These actions taken by the president are an attempt to silence dissent through intimidation by the power of the government. Our constitutional rights of freedom of assembly and speech are jeopardized when expressing through peaceful protest broad political beliefs such as “anti-capitalism” and “anti-Christianity” are considered illegal. POLITICAL VIOLENCE HAS NO PLACE IN AMERICA. But INTIMIDATING AND THREATENING CITIZENS FOR HAVING OPPOSING POLITICAL VIEWS HAS NO PLACE IN AMERICA EITHER. We are being led to believe that we are being protected from violent forces, when in reality those on the ideological left are being censored. Non-profit organizations are being targeted for allegedly funding and promoting terrorism in our country without evidence, when they are merely supporting freedom of speech. Law experts indicate the memorandum carries no legal weight because NEW CRIMES CANNOT BE CREATED BY EXECUTIVE ORDER.

Week of September 21st

Border Czar Accepts Cash in FBI Sting

Representative Fong: The Guardian reported that Tom Homan, Trump’s border czar, accepted $50,000 from undercover FBI agents who were posing as business contractors last year. The sting took place six weeks prior to the 2024 election. In a recording, Homan allegedly promised to assist in securing government contracts during Trump’s second term, according to a new report by MSNBC. The DOJ under the Biden administration chose to hold off and determine whether Homan would follow through on his promises after his appointment as border czar. The investigation stopped after Trump took office and officials appointed by Trump chose to drop the case. A DOJ official referred to the case as a “deep state” investigation. Statements from FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche indicated that “no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing” was found. According to an internal summary of the case reviewed by MSNBC and sources who spoke to reporters, Homan was seen on video accepting the cash at a meeting spot in Texas on September 20, 2024. Multiple federal officials determined a solid criminal case could be brought against Homan for conspiracy to commit bribery and fraud. Because Homan was not yet a public official and Trump was not yet president, his actions did not meet the criteria for a standard bribery charge. Therefore, a decision was reached to continue to observe Homan once he joined Trump’s second administration. Homan was Acting Director of ICE in Trump’s first term and he was hired to manage Trump’s massive deportation project in his second term. Homan was also involved in development of Project 2025 while working for the Heritage Foundation. California Senator Adam Schiff, who was a former federal prosecutor, stated on social media that AG Bondi and FBI Director Patel knew about the recorded evidence against Homan, but they concealed the investigation. The president was infuriated by Senator Schiff’s remarks and directed the AG to hire Lindsey Halligan as interim US attorney for the eastern district of Virginia following the resignation of Erik Siebert (who refused to prosecute Leticia James WITH NO EVIDENCE) so that she can seek criminal charges against Leticia James and Adam Schiff on mortgage fraud claims. The revenge tour continues, the rule of law is cast aside, and the president acts with impunity.

Western States Health Alliance

Representative Fong: With the horrible politicization of health choices that has transpired under the Trump administrations, California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii have coordinated to form the West Coast Health Alliance (WCHA). The alliance will provide recommendations for the 2025-26 COVID19, influenza, and RSV vaccines. With the alliance, the governor also signed a bill to base future immunization guidance on credible, independent medical organizations rather than on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) under the Center for Disease Control (CDC). This effort is an attempt to build trust and to protect communities from severe illness and death. It also helps to prevent the strain placed on hospitals and medical facilities by reducing community transmission of serious illness. The bold move is in response to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s purging of all seventeen members of the ACIP and replacing them with vaccine skeptics, triggering resignations of other career CDC staff who have been dedicated to scientific studies and oversight. I am grateful that these western states have moved to find a solution to one of the crises that the Trump administration has caused for our nation. By aligning with other states in this way, resolving major domestic issues that have arisen, such as economics, commerce, education, law enforcement, and other areas of society that have been negatively impacted by Trump’s policies may be possible.

Billionaires Buy Up Media Companies in US

Representative Fong: Americans should take note that billionaires are buying American media companies and of the danger it presents. Business Insider reported that Elon’ Musk purchased Twitter which he transformed to his own personal messaging service, causing many of its users to leave the platform. Larry Ellison is financing his son David’s plan to purchase Warner Bros Discovery which owns HBO, CNN, and the Warner Bros movie studio, just weeks after purchasing Paramount. Competitors such as Comcast or Disney would have to answer to shareholders and also determine where the funds for the purchase would originate. Larry Ellison, the world’s second wealthiest man, was insulated from investor concerns in his purchase of publicly traded Paramount because he holds effective control. Because Ellison is a Trump supporter, he does not have to worry about regulatory approval. Although Musk was public about his plans to change the ideological path of Twitter, Larry Ellison, a rare Republican in the technology industry, and his son David who is a Democratic Party donor and was a supporter of Joe Biden, have insisted they are apolitical owners of Paramount. However, no information has been disclosed about how the company would proceed once the purchase of Warner Bros Discovery is finalized. MSNBC reported that with ABC’s suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, it is increasingly apparent that the Trump administration is moving further towards media censorship. The consolidation of media under a smaller number of wealthy owners makes the situation dangerous for a country that relies on a free press. Fifty media companies owned 90% of American media in 1983, and by 2012 ownership was reduced to six companies. Today, ownership is in the hands of FIVE COMPANIES. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair Brendan Carr said in response to Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks about the assassination of a conservative activist, “we can do this the easy way or the hard way,” encouraging Nexstar, the largest owner of local television stations in the country, to pull Kimmel, a constant critic of the Trump administration, from the air. Carr’s leverage was the approval Nexstar needs to purchase Tegna, a company that will increase Nexstar’s holdings to 265 stations. Disney, ABC’s parent company, is also dependent on approvals for future deals involving the streaming service FUBO and a percentage sale of ESPN. The actual problem is the DEREGULATON of the 1970s that eroded the 1934 Communications Act which strictly limited the number of radio and television broadcast stations an individual person or company could own. With exploding mergers, we are now in a situation which makes it much easier for an authoritarian government to control media nationwide. Congress needs to take action on legislation before it becomes too late to protect our free press.

Trump Recommendations for Acetaminophen and Leucovorin

Representative Fong: ABC News reported that the Trump administration announced that the use of acetaminophen by pregnant women may be linked to increased risk of autism, even though no causal link has been provided by medical evidence. Medical experts continue to recommend the use of the drug to treat fever and pain during pregnancy because it has been determined to be the safest medication. High fevers during pregnancy can be damaging to the mother and the fetus. The president acknowledged that his advice was based more on “common sense” than on scientific evidence. Dr. Steven Fleischman president of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists criticized the recommendation from HHS because it “is not backed by the full body of scientific evidence and dangerously simplifies the many and complex causes of neurologic challenges in children.” Again, without robust studies, the administration also announced that it is beginning an approval process for Leucovorin, which is used in cancer care, to treat symptoms of some children with autism. Doctors argue that even though there is some promise for this medication, more research is needed to understand the appropriate dosages and to determine if it really does help some children. The rise in diagnoses of autism is likely attributed to increased awareness, better screening and access to services, and a broadened definition of the condition. Secretary of HHS, Robert F. Kennedy also suggested that the childhood vaccine schedule could contribute to autism, which contradicts years of research and multiple studies that found no link between vaccines and autism. Sadly, many Americans will follow these recommendations and possibly jeopardize their health and the health of their children. Not unlike the recommendations Trump made about unproven therapies in his first administration regarding treatment of COVID19 which were further promoted by conservative media, these current recommendations will likely sway the public and result in undesired effects.

NATO Intercepts Russian Jets Over Estonian Airspace

Representative Fong: CNN reported that three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated Estonia’s airspace on September 19 over the Gulf of Finland, remaining for 12 minutes. Italian, Swedish, and Finnish aircraft responded to the incursion and the jets were forced to flee. NATO Secretary General Rutte praised the quick response. Russia denied the incursion, saying the flight was in accordance with international law. Estonia requested NATO Article 4 consultations following this violation. The North Atlantic Council will meet next week to discuss the incident in greater detail and next steps will be considered. Poland called a consultation of the council after several Russian drones and fighter jets entered its airspace a week earlier. Russia has been testing NATO by frequent incursions into Poland, Romania, and now Estonia. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen indicated that the EU will respond to every provocation and will strengthen its eastern flank. Poland shot down drones that violated its airspace which was the first time that shots were fired by NATO since the start of Russia’s war on Ukraine. Romania responded to the violation of its airspace by sending two F-18 fighter jets but decided not to open fire due to concerns of collateral risks. Russia continues to be emboldened. GREATER SANCTIONS must be imposed to discourage Russia from such provocative and dangerous actions. Congress must act.

Trump Changes Position on Ukraine

Representative Fong: Numerous news outlets, including The NYTimes, ABC, NBC News, Politico, and the BBC, reported that following the United Nations meeting, Trump seemed to take a different position on Russia and its war on Ukraine. Calling Russia “a paper tiger,” Trump said that Ukraine, with help from the EU, could possibly TAKE BACK ALL OF THE TERRITORY it has lost during the war. This change of position was unexpected but was possibly prompted by Russia’s recent incursions into NATO airspace. Although the president commented positively on the EU’s support of Ukraine and expressed more unity with the Western Alliance, he made no new commitments to Ukraine’s defense and did not notify Ukraine of this change of posture. The EU, knowing the president’s mercurial nature, was reluctant to feel too hopeful. At a meeting between US and Russia following the UN Meeting, the US reiterated the expectation for a stop to the killing and steps toward a durable resolution to the war. Unfortunately, no concrete next steps have been proposed. Congress should act on imposing increased sanctions on Russia.

Trump’s United Nations Speech

Representative Fong: The Associated Press reported on several speakers at the United Nations General Assembly who are not usually covered. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda stated, “Our international order is being slowly eroded by the irresponsible actions of those who should know better. The world is turning into a much more dangerous place. We have seen this before.” President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa said, “We are fighting wars that cause death and destruction when we should be fighting poverty.” The loudest voice in the room, however, spoke about a variety of other issues. CNN reported that Trump demanded an investigation for suspected sabotage because of technical mishaps with the escalator, the teleprompter, and the audio system at the United Nations. The president immediately saw these occurrences as “sinister events.” The UN Secretary General spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said that the president ordered a complete investigation. The president’s reaction to common technical mishaps is indicative of the president’s hostility towards the United Nations, an international body based on cooperation and goodwill among nations of the world. This president would certainly not want to convey support of cooperation and goodwill. It was suspected that the escalator stopped because the president’s videographer who rode the escalator ahead of the president triggered a safety mechanism. A UN official speaking on condition of anonymity said the White House was operating the teleprompter for the president. The Associated Press reported that Trump’s speech criticized the United Nations while praising the progress America has made under his leadership, including his questionable successes in halting “seven wars” in various hotspots, at which time he put in yet another plug for his consideration for the Nobel Peace Prize. He warned that the EU was headed for disaster by adopting immigration policies that allow the flow of immigrants into their countries and embracing green energy. He bragged about his perceived achievements in his “America First” stance, saying that all other nations were “going to hell.” He suggested that other countries crack down on illegal immigration and expand use of oil and natural gas. He called the global efforts to use clean renewable energy as a “green energy scam.” Trump spoke more favorably of his stand against Putin in Russia’s war against Ukraine, suggesting that he was ready to impose “a very strong round of powerful tariffs.” We have heard these threats from the president on numerous occasions, but they have not materialized. Trump was critical of nations who chose to recognize Palestine as a state, maintaining his position with Israel. Trump insisted that despite his criticisms of the UN, he backed it fully. Having already pulled some US funding from the organization, the president’s criticisms cause concerns to arise for future reductions in funding. Trump’s representation of the United States across the world has been an embarrassing blow to us all.

Week of September 14th

President’s Divisive and Reckless Rhetoric

Representative Fong: The NYTimes reported that the president said the “radical left” was responsible for much of the political violence in the country and excused the violence coming from the right, saying the right is only driven by not wanting to see crime in America. These statements are untrue and inflammatory. Following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, Trump was incensed, AS MOST AMERICANS ARE, in seeing another senseless death in the name of political ideology. No other president has spoken in these divisive and reckless terms when attacks were suffered at the hands of the right, or the left for that matter. The president is again demonizing the opposition party and laying blame, when the majority on the left are opposed to violence, beg for gun control, and have also suffered loss of life and brutal attacks at the hands of the right. President Trump had no information about the shooter or his motives when he began his tirade about the evils of the left. He told reporters, “We have radical left lunatics out there, and we just have to beat the hell out of them.” This is a dangerous message to send to the American people. Only later did he try to soften his comments by stating that his supporters should respond to the killing of Mr. Kirk with “nonviolence.” However, the original message was already delivered loudly and clearly. We have not forgotten that Trump pardoned the January 6 insurrectionists who were found guilty of committing violence against police officers. Trump’s idea of justice only pertains to his perceived enemies. In an interview with NBC News, the president said that although he would like to see the nation heal, the “radical left” is a barrier to reconciliation. One should note that the MANY PROTESTS across the nation in response to the policies of the Trump administration are CIVIL AND PEACEFUL. President Trump’s call for more violence is yet another example of his lack of leadership and the damage that he continues to inflict on the nation as he further divides us.

Representative Fong: Oregon Public Broadcasting reported that the US Department of Education, or what is left of it under the Trump administration, has cut funding to student disability programs in Oregon. The government’s rationale for these cuts is the practice of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the state’s schools. The federal government decided that since Oregon’s educational system considers the DIVERSITY of children in public schools, in this case children with disabilities, and provides services for them, allowing them to be appropriately INCLUDED in the educational process, the state’s public schools should no longer be eligible for the funds that support this process. Some of the students that have had funding cuts are programs for the deaf and blind. Because of its equity policies, a grant to Western Oregon University for its “Deaf Blind Interpreting National Training and Resource Center” was determined “not to be in the best interest of the Federal Government.” I repeat, NOT IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT! The non-profit Central Oregon Disability Support Network which serves 4,000 families to help students with disabilities and their families navigate special education programs had its funding cut because it was deemed in “conflict with the Department’s policy of prioritizing merit, fairness, and excellence in education.” Under past administrations, applications for federal funding received approval IF the programs MET REQUIREMENTS FOR EQUITY! The counties that apply for these grants for their students have child poverty rates higher than the state’s average. The federal funds were approved through 2026, but the sudden end will result in cuts to staff, sometimes up to 50%. The Wisconsin Examiner reported that funds were terminated abruptly for children with vision and hearing loss, as well as for others receiving special education services in the Wisconsin Department of Public Education. Other states have been impacted too, including Washington, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont per ProPublica. Meanwhile, The Alaska Beacon reported that grants for Alaska Native and Hawaii-Native indigenous students have been terminated. The University of Alaska system is committed to “Alaska Native culture, language, art, heritage, business, and tribal management and governance.” The Trump administration said last week that it will withhold $360 million of congressionally approved funding for minority-serving colleges and universities, indicating the money will be allocated elsewhere. The Trump administration is ripping resources away for our neediest students which will surely impact future generations. This administration’s cruel and inhumane treatment seems to target those who are the most vulnerable in our country. Representative Fong, I ask that you NOT SEND ME THE SAME LETTER that you have sent numerous times in response to my concerns about the president and his policies. You describe in your letter the president’s goals of “putting the interests of American workers and families first,” but we all know that this statement is far from the truth. Having you repeat it when the facts prove otherwise is an insult to our collective national intelligence.

Russian Drone Invades Romanian Air Space

Representative Fong: The NYTimes reported that in less than a week, Russian drones have violated another NATO country, Romania, escalating the tensions Russia instigated after having numerous drones enter Polish airspace last week. In response to the drones in Polish air space, NATO fired upon and shot the drones down. Following the Romanian incident, Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief stated, “The violation of Romanian airspace by Russian drones is yet another unacceptable breach of an EU member state’s sovereignty.” Romania deployed two F-16 aircraft to monitor Russian incursions on Ukrainian infrastructure near the Romanian border and consequently detected the drone in its airspace. Although the defense ministry authorized firing on the drone, Romania assessed the collateral risks and decided not to fire. The drone spent 50 minutes in Romanian airspace until it left without causing damage or casualties. The Russian ambassador was summoned to discuss the incident but had not yet responded. In 2023 and 2024, debris from Russian drones was found in Romanian territory. President Zelinsky of Ukraine said that these incursions into NATO airspace are an expansion of Russia’s war on Ukraine, stating that the small incursions are designed to seem innocuous, but can eventually result in “big losses.” Deutsche Welle (DW) reported that Trump’s latest excuse for not imposing greater sanctions on Russia for violations against Ukraine and on our NATO allies is that NATO members continue oil and gas imports from Russia and that he will not impose heavy sanctions until ALL gas and oil imports cease. Hungary and Slovakia still rely heavily on Russian imports, while other EU countries have dramatically reduced its reliance on Russian energy sources. Trump’s move to put pressure on Hungary and Slovakia has been criticized as a further delay in US-supported sanctions. Turkey, a NATO country, is the third largest buyer of Russian oil after China and India. The EU has little leverage over Turkey, so it is unlikely that Trump’s conditions will be met. Ian Bond, deputy director of the Center for European Reform remarked that “It’s very telling that almost the only country on which Trump has not imposed tariffs is Russia.” Let us not forget the events prior to WWII that led to the start of the war: 1) the non-aggression pact between Germany and the Soviet Union that avoided a two-front war and gave the Soviet Union TIME to build up its military; and 2) Germany’s FALSE-FLAG OPERATION to create a pretext for invading Poland. By allowing RUSSIAN PROVOCATIONS to continue in NATO territories and Trump giving the war between Russia and Ukraine more TIME to play out, a very dangerous situation is evolving. Congress has the power to move forward with sanctions on Russia without the president’s approval.

Attacking Venezuelans Without Proof of Crime

Representative Fong: The NYTimes reported that the US fired upon individuals on a Venezuelan boat traveling in international waters on Sept 15. Three people were killed in this attack. An earlier attack on Sept 2 on a Venezuelan boat killed eleven individuals. The boat had turned around to flee the military aircraft that stalked it. Once the boat was disabled, the military continued to fire upon it. The president asserts that the attacks were justified because the individuals are narco-terrorists who are part of violent drug trafficking cartels that pose a threat to our country. The president assured that the deceased individuals were positively identified, but he did not indicate from which criminal organization they are associated. Aerial surveillance video that was provided showed a boat bobbing in the water before erupting in a fiery explosion, but the clip was edited and did not show the entire incident. Legal specialists state the US military actions are unlawful. Venezuelan President Maduro said these attacks were on civilians. He said that if the US believes that the boat passengers are drug traffickers, they should have been arrested. Under the Trump administration firepower in the Caribbean Sea has been increased. Normally, as was the case just a day prior to the latest attack, the US Navy boards suspected vessels and detains the crew until evidence of a crime is discovered. In this case, the crew was held for eight hours and then released. The senior Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, Senator Jack Reed of Rhode Island stated, “No president can secretly wage war or carry out unjustified killings…” The government has not provided rationale as to why the US Navy or Coast Guard did not stop and arrest the individuals if they had suspicions that they were guilty of drug smuggling, rather than resort to lethal force. Congress has not authorized the use of armed attacks against drug cartels.

Erosion of First Amendment Rights

Representative Fong: CNBC reported that the president has filed a $15 billion defamation and libel lawsuit against the New York Times, saying that the newspaper is making false statements about him. The New York Times stated that the president’s lawsuit “lacks any legitimate legal claims and instead is an attempt to stifle and discourage independent reporting.” Trump has previously sued the Wall Street Journal for $10 billion for an article that linked the president to child-sex trafficker Epstein. The president brought a suit against ABC News and against Paramount over a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris, the latter in which he alleged that the network edited the interview to paint Harris in a more favorable light as a candidate. ABC News and Paramount opted to settle the suits with payments of $15 million and $16 million, respectively. This week NBC News reported that Disney’s ABC’s ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live” was pulled off the air “indefinitely” AFTER COMMENTS MADE BY Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr threatened to “take action” against Disney and ABC over remarks made by comedian Kimmel about the young assassin who killed a well-known right-wing activist and supporter of the president. As you are certainly aware from numerous video recordings, THE PRESIDENT IMMEDIATELY BLAMED THE “RADICAL LEFT” FOR THE DEATH OF HIS FRIEND AND SUPPORTER, without any knowledge of the case, EVEN BEFORE THE ASSAILANT WAS APPREHENDED! MR. KIMMEL DISPUTED THE PRESIDENT’S ASSESSMENT, saying that the young man was actually a product of the right MAGA movement because of information released by the media from the young assassin’s emails about his family’s MAGA political leanings. Mr. Kimmel said NOTHING DISRESPECTFUL ABOUT THE DECEASED ACTIVIST but only spoke of the assassin’s association to right-wing political ideology. To add to the underhandedness of this situation, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. which owns 200 ABC-affiliated stations in the United States, IS AWAITING APPROVAL FROM THE FCC FOR A $6.2 BILLION ACQUISITION OF TEGNA, making it the largest local TV broadcaster in the nation. The president put his stamp of approval on the pulling of Mr. Kimmel’s program, stating “Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do WHAT HAD TO BE DONE.” Weeks earlier, another late-night comedian, Stephen Colbert, who is also a well-known critic of the president, had his show cancelled by CBS, which cited failed ratings as the cause. We are fully aware that THESE MEDIA INCIDENTS ARE SERIOUS BLOWS TO OUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH and further evidence of the nation’s slide to autocracy.

Trump Threatens Firing US Attorney Erik Siebert For NOT Finding Evidence Against AG Leticia James

Representative Fong: ABC News reported that the president is preparing to fire US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Erik Siebert, whom he appointed, because he failed to find incriminating evidence of mortgage fraud against NY Attorney General Leticia James! Trump officials were pushing US Attorney Siebert to bring charges against her, nevertheless. Siebert was notified that his last day of work would be Friday. Attorney for AG James, Abbe Lowell said this firing is a “brazen attack on the rule of law.” Attorney Lowell continued, “Firing people until he finds someone who will bend the law to carry out his revenge has been the President’s pattern – and it’s illegal. Punishing this prosecutor, a Trump appointee, for doing his job sends a clear and chilling message that anyone who dares uphold the law over politics will face the same fate.” Siebert’s office serves over six million people with a staff of 300 prosecutors and handles terrorism and intelligence cases because of its proximity to Washington DC. He is known for his dedication to public safety, his coordination with DC Metropolitan Police Department, and his handling of violent crimes and firearms trafficking. Trump seeks retribution against AG Leticia James for bringing a civil fraud case against him last year. The NYTimes reported that Trump administration officials are divided over the dismissal of Erik Siebert with AG Bondi and Deputy AG Blanche against the firing, and Director of Housing Finance Agency William Pulte urging that Siebert be fired and replaced with a prosecutor who would push the retribution cases forward. Who will stand up to the illegal actions of this president? Why would anyone support such a corrupt and vengeful president to lead our country? What kind of country will we be after years of inept and lawless leadership?

Trump’s Visit to Great Britain

Representative Fong: ABC, NBC, BBC, NYTimes and various other news agencies reported on the historic visit of the President Trump to Great Britain. Trump was the first elected political leader in modern times to be invited twice by a British monarch. The Trumps were invited previously by Queen Elizabeth II in 2019. The president and first lady were met with incredible pomp and circumstance at Windsor Castle. The visit highlighted the long relationship between the US and the United Kingdom. King Charles said that “our people HAVE FOUGHT AND DIED TOGETHER FOR THE VALUES we hold dear.” President Trump noted the bond between the two countries and complimented the UK for laying the groundwork for LAW AND LIBERTY. Despite the incredible pageantry in his honor that Trump adores, he did not improve the terms of the trade deal negotiated by Britain with the US. He did not promise any change in his stance on Russia’s war on Ukraine or Israel’s ferocious military campaign on Gaza. Trump stated he disagreed with Prime Minister Keir Starmer about recognizing a Palestinian state. Kim Darroch, Britain’s ambassador to Washington during Trump’s first term, admitted that everyone understands that the over-the-top welcome provided to Trump is necessary to avoid getting into “a lot of trouble with Trump.” In the end, the United Kingdom was able to establish an advanced technology partnership with the US. Peter Mandelson, Britain’s most recent ambassador to Washington negotiated the technology deal; however, he was just removed from his position because of his close ties with Jeffrey Epstein. In front of the press, Trump claimed he did not know Mandelson, even though he had met with Mandelson only last week in the Oval Office. Trump could not stop himself from his usual vitriolic rhetoric about his predecessor, or from touting all his perceived hyperbolic accomplishments of saving the US from its previous “sick” state, and ending numerous wars (this time, the number was seven) around the globe. We are frequently subjected in the US to Trump blathering on about his imagined greatness and his perceptions of his positive impact on the nation, but it is a huge embarrassment when he prevaricates on the world stage. Meanwhile outside the castle walls, crowds numbering thousands gathered in central London to protest Trump, carrying anti-Trump signs and marching towards Parliament. A recent poll found that 70% of Britons dislike Trump and 44% thought his state visit should have been cancelled.

Week of September 7th

Renaming the Department of Defense

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that Trump has signed an executive order to change the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War. The president continually tries to portray himself as anti-war, as someone whose self-professed diplomatic skills have squashed numerous conflicts (was it six or ten this week?) around the world, and who consequently is deserving of consideration for the Nobel Peace Prize. In reality, President Trump has been a bully and an aggressor on the world stage, threatening Canada, Greenland, Panama, and Gaza with military intervention. He has now actually undertaken military action in Iran and attacked and killed crew members on a Venezuelan boat who were accused of drug trafficking. He has even deployed the military in Los Angeles and Washington, DC. Trump campaigned on promises of not engaging in wars, but his aggressive actions have put the nation’s security at risk.

Only Congress has the authority to change department names. If done legally through Congress, the renaming, which CHANGES AMERICAN POSTURE FROM A DEFENSIVE ONE TO AN OFFENSIVE ONE, would result in millions of dollars in unnecessary and WASTEFUL COSTS. Trump’s decision to change our military stance was likely prompted by the recent summit in China in which leaders of non-western nations came together with a desire to reorder the global power structure. Despite Trump’s distancing from our traditional alliances and his admiration and praise of authoritarian leadership, the United States was not included in the summit. For the time being, the new name has been directed to be used in “official correspondence, public communications, ceremonial contexts and non-statutory documents with the executive branch.”

I am OPPOSED to this name change, the message it conveys, and everything that it represents. My vision for the nation moving forward is one in which diplomacy is fundamental in conflict resolution and force is only employed in defense of the nation. We should strive to be a model for upright, trustworthy, and civil interactions while building relationships with other nations. After these devastating self-inflicted blows, restoring our reputation and building trust will take a very long time.

Secretary Kennedy’s Senate Hearing

Representative Fong:

Axios reported that at the Senate hearing to clarify the positions and recent actions of Health Secretary Kennedy, Kennedy stood firm on his skepticism of vaccines that have been proven to be effective in controlling the spread of infectious disease. He provided NO VALID SCIENTIFIC DATA for his arguments. Kennedy defended his decision to fire Dr. Susan Monarez from her position as Director of the Center for Disease Control. Although she was terminated for refusing to accept vaccine recommendations that were made by an advisory committee that did not use scientifically backed data, Kennedy insisted ABSURDLY that his decision to fire her was because he asked her if she was a trustworthy person and she ANSWERED NO! Kennedy defended his replacement of all 17 members of the vaccine advisory panel with handpicked members who are known vaccine skeptics and who have sowed disinformation regarding vaccines.

Even Republican Senators expressed their concerns that Kennedy’s leadership was jeopardizing public safety. They cited examples of outbreaks of measles and that other diseases such as hepatitis B, chicken pox, whooping cough, and polio could put Americans at risk under Kennedy’s misinformation about vaccine safety. Kennedy was asked for his praise of Trump for the development of the COVID-19 vaccine during his first administration that saved millions of lives, which he was exuberant to provide, saying Trump was deserving of a Nobel Prize. Nevertheless, he has cancelled $500 million in grants for developing new mRNA vaccines and then contradicted his praise of Trump stating that the data about the lives saved by the vaccine are flawed. He insists that anyone who wants COVID vaccines this fall will be able to get them; however, he has narrowed its approved labeling for people under 65 to those with underlying conditions.

Without recommendations for the inoculations by the CDC, pharmacies in certain states will not be legally able to administer the shots. People are clearly being denied access who had access previously. Kennedy stated to the surprise of the Senators that he had no idea how many people died from COVID because he believes the data collected by the CDC were not legitimate.

The Atlantic reported that many Senators believe that Kennedy was not honest in his responses during his confirmation hearings. Republican Senator Barrasso of Wyoming reminded Kennedy that he promised “to uphold the highest standards for vaccines” during his confirmation, but that Barrasso has grown “deeply concerned” since then. Despite the lack of confidence expressed by the Senators over Kennedy’s leadership, he remained defiant, giving the impression that with the president’s approval, he is beyond reproach. Woe to us.

Trump Threatens War on Chicago

Representative Fong:

After his decree for the department name change from Department of Defense to Department of War, the president DECLARED WAR ON AN AMERICAN CITY. CBS News reported that In a social media post in which he is depicted as a character from the war movie “Apocalypse Now,” Trump tells Chicago that the city is “about to find out why it’s called the Department of WAR.” The post was followed by three helicopter emojis, symbols that convey the action commonly practiced by dictators of pushing political dissidents to their deaths out of airborne vehicles.

Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois stated, “This is not normal,” on the program “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.” She added, “This is not acceptable behavior.” Duckworth says that she takes what the president says seriously. She also says it would be an illegal order to declare war on a city of the United States by the president. Duckworth visited the Naval Station Great Lakes after learning immigration enforcement agents will be based there. Thus far, the only preparation has been for office space for ICE, but no other facilities have been requested by the federal government that would support troops in Chicago.

Additionally, the federal government has not reached out to local law enforcement about plans to send troops. Polls show that Americans are opposed to the president deploying National Guard troops to American cities. After the president’s dramatic war images and belligerent rhetoric, he later added “we’re not going to war.” The president has purposefully threatened to send military troops to Chicago, as he already has to Los Angeles and Washington DC, even though Illinois Governor Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have said they are not needed nor welcome in the city. Mayor Johnson posted on Twitter/X, “The President’s threats are beneath the honor of our nation, but the reality is that he wants to occupy our city and break our Constitution.”

We are tired of the president’s threats and incessant attacks on his opponents. We truly feel we are under attack by our own government almost daily as we observe the destruction of our institutions and the president’s attention-seeking tantrums.

Supreme Court Allows Trump to Fire FTC Commissioner Temporarily

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that the Supreme Court made a temporary ruling on a lawsuit that challenged President Trump’s firing of Democrat Rebecca Slaughter on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) without cause, allowing her removal until the Supreme Court decides whether to rule on her dismissal. Chief Justice Roberts did not give a reason for the temporary ruling. However, the high court may be signaling that it will overturn the appeals court decision that affirmed Rebecca Slaughter’s reinstatement. Ms. Slaughter was removed without cause even though a 1914 statute creating the FTC states that commissioners can only be removed for “inefficiency, neglect of duty, or malfeasance.” She was fired along with the other Democrat commissioner Alvaro Bedoya serving on the five-person commission. Commissioner Bedoya began to fight the dismissal, but later dropped out of the case. Ms. Slaughter indicated she would continue to fight. She stated, “In the week I was back at the FTC it became even more clear to me that we desperately need the transparency and accountability Congress intended to have at bipartisan independent agencies.”

Trump continues to claim authority to fire heads of independent agencies and commissions that are protected by law from being removed without cause. In each case, the Supreme Court has allowed Trump to remove the individuals while legal proceedings work through the courts. In 1935 the Supreme Court ruled to establish for-cause protections by Congress for the FTC and other commissions that are bipartisan and do not exercise executive power. This FTC ruling comes as Federal Reserve Lisa Cook is fighting for her position from which she was terminated for a cause that Governor Cook alleges is illegal. Governor Cook’s case will likely come before the Supreme Court also.

The Supreme Court has undermined the protections of these positions in recent years, giving the president increasing power. Increasing presidential power does not bode well for our government’s eroding separation of powers which was DESIGNED TO PREVENT TYRANNY.

Russian Drones Violate Polish Air Space

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that Poland announced that 19 Russian drones violated Polish territory on Wednesday, September 10 during their attack on western Ukraine. Poland’s military with help from NATO allies shot down the drones, the first time that such a response has been triggered since Russia started the war with Ukraine. Polish President Karol Nawrocki communicated with fellow European leaders and with Trump about the situation Wednesday afternoon. Russia said it had no intention of attacking Poland and initially blamed the violation on electronic interference to the flight range of the drones during the attack on western Ukraine, causing them to go astray. Russia said they were willing to hold consultations with the Polish Ministry of Defense regarding the situation. However, Polish Foreign Minister Sikorski stated that the incursion was intentional and that the large number of drones in Polish air space could not have been accidental. He called for the European Union to establish a “drone wall” to counter future threats.

Polish Prime Minister Tusk noted that “This situation brings us the closest we have been to open conflict since World War II.” He invoked Article 4 of the NATO Treaty which calls for consultations with NATO allies. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the incursion reckless, whether or not it was deliberate. Fortunately, NATO forces responded decisively to the situation. The US Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whittaker indicated that the US stands by our NATO allies and “will defend every inch of NATO territory.”

Trump’s reaction was a social media posting in which he stated, “What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!” It was unclear what the president meant by the latter statement. Debris was found from the drones and one projectile in Polish territory. Further investigation revealed that the direction of travel showed the violation was not accidental, making it a serious provocation. Sweden and Norway pledged their full support of Poland and members of the Baltic states voiced their concerns. The incident clearly shows Russia is expanding its aggression in the region and seems to be testing NATO. The incursion follows Putin’s recent attendance of a summit in China with other autocratic leaders from whom he has reaffirmed support. According to Newsweek, Russia more recently tried to deny the situation saying there was no evidence of the incursion, even though Poland produced debris from the downed drones.

Trump’s attempt to court Putin in Alaska with hopes of deescalating his war on Ukraine failed and seems to have given Putin renewed confidence that Trump will not follow through with previous threats to impose stronger sanctions on Russia. Without additional economic sanctions on Russia, strengthening of Ukraine’s defenses, and boosting Europe’s defense capabilities, Putin will continue to feel emboldened.

Deal Brokered With Belarus After Russian Drones Enter Polish Air Space

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reported that Belarus released 52 political prisoners on Thursday as a part of deal with the United States which lifted sanctions on Belarus’s national airline. The sanctions were placed on Belarus after it allowed a commercial jet flying between Greece and Lithuania to land in Belarus capital Minsk but then arrested a dissident journalist who was on board. As Belarus tried to release the political prisoners into Lithuania, some were opposed being deported from their home country, even though they had been jailed.

The warming of the relationship between the US and this very close ally of Russia comes after years of Belarus distancing from the west. The possibility of a face-to-face meeting between Trump and Belarus leader Alexander Lukashenko is being considered. Lukashenko has ruled Belarus with an iron fist for three decades and allowed Russia to use its territory in the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, resulting in increased sanctions from the US. Lessening of sanctions on Belarus comes ONLY DAYS after incursion of Polish air space by Russian drones. Russia may benefit from this ease of sanctions by getting airplane parts through the national airline of Belarus. Minsk will be able to resell parts to Moscow at favorable prices.

Today, when asked about the drone incident in Polish air space, Trump said it could have been “a mistake,” giving Putin the benefit of the doubt, but that he was UNHAPPY about the situation. Perhaps the president is not unhappy enough to impose greater sanctions on Russia as he SHOULD BE DOING IN SUPPORT OF OUR EUROPEAN ALLIES. Perhaps the president somehow mistakenly believes easing sanctions on Belarus is sending a message to Russia that he is unhappy. Or perhaps the president Is ACTUALLY HAPPY to allow Russia’s war on Ukraine to continue and to allow Putin to threaten our NATO allies. CONGRESS MUST USE ITS CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY TO INCREASE SANCTIONS ON RUSSIA.

USDA Rescinding the “Roadless Rule” that Protects 60 Million Acres of National Forest

Representative Fong:

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is moving forward with its plan to rescind the Roadless Rule, which protects nearly 60 million acres of national forest across the country, four million acres of which are in California. Nick Jensen, Conservation Program Director for the California Native Plant Society, indicates that in our state the Roadless Rule protects over 600 rare plant species and 26 sensitive habitats including ancient Bristlecone pines. Landscapes that require ecologically informed fire management, such as chaparral, oak woodlands, and desert ecosystems are under the protection of the Roadless Rule, as well as headwaters that supply clean drinking water to millions of people.

Additionally, tribal cultural resources and sacred lands have been shielded with this rule in place. Without the Roadless Rule, natural forests and public lands could be opened to logging, road construction, and industrial development. With increased human activity on these precious lands, the chances of wildfires will also increase. Biodiversity, clean waterways, and climate resilience will be put in jeopardy. I urge you to block the USDA from rescinding this important protection of our natural lands.

Week of August 31st

Representative Fong:

CBS News reported that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has directed that all intelligence on negotiations for Russia’s war on Ukraine were barred from US intelligence partners as of July 20. “The Five Eyes,” our post-World War II intelligence alliance, is comprised of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Intelligence on matters of negotiations is important to divulge when policy decisions are being made using the “plans, intentions, and capabilities of our adversaries,” according to Steven Cash, a former intelligence officer at the CIA and Department of Homeland Security. The information is crucial for coordinating positions. Information regarding these negotiations was labeled as NOFORN, meaning no foreign dissemination. At least, information regarding military operations was not included in this directive and could still be shared with Ukrainian military to assist their defensive operations.

Gabbard’s directive erodes trust among the members of the intelligence alliance. The US would be less likely to receive intelligence from these partners if they are led to believe they are being shut out. Our partners may seek to form alliances with new channels of information and make decisions that would impact our national security without US input. Although all members of the alliance sometimes determine that certain intelligence should not be shared with allied members, Trump’s contentious relationships with the European Union and his frequent praise of authoritarian leaders make Gabbard’s decision suspect.

Politico, NBC, and The Atlantic reported last spring that intelligence sharing among NATO countries has been in jeopardy because foreign officials are concerned that in sharing with the US, sensitive information might make its way to Moscow.

Additionally, Trump’s mishandling of classified documents during his last administration did not instill confidence that he takes intelligence seriously. With the Trump administration’s realignment of US position in world politics, we are becoming increasingly “America Alone” rather than “America First,” not a good position in which to be, in my opinion.

Deporting Children to Guatemala

Representative Fong:

Politico, The Guardian, and CBS News among others reported that the Trump administration tried to deport more than 600 unaccompanied children to their homeland of Guatemala in the early morning hours yesterday (on the day prior to Labor Day, a national holiday). Fortunately, a federal judge ordered an emergency halt of this plan after immigrant advocacy groups sued the administration for illegal deportation. The children arrived in the US alone and are in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Refugee Resettlement. While in the US, the children are supposed to be in supervised shelters, with a foster care family, or with a sponsor who is usually a family member. In some cases, the children were not notified in advance that they would be removed, and they were not given an opportunity to contest their deportations. Some of the children who were being deported expressed fears of persecution, neglect, abuse, and torture upon their return to Guatemala.

The Trump administration called the deportation a “pilot program” in cooperation with the Guatemalan government. The government argues that they were merely reuniting the children with their families. At least one of the planes had already taken off but was required to return to the US with the children on board. Although it may be true that some of the children would actually be reunited with family members in Guatemala, advocates for the children indicated that some of the children do not meet the criteria that the government outlined and that lawsuits were thus filed on the children’s behalf to stop the deportation.

Attorneys for the children say that unaccompanied children are EXEMPTED FROM EXPEDITED DEPORTATION and have additional protections for children seeking asylum. Thus, even children who were to be reunited with family members must receive FULL IMMIGRATION PROCEEDINGS. The judge STRONGLY expressed the blockade of the deportation, concerned that the administration would proceed with the flights as they had when they were deporting immigrants to Venezuela and they defied the directive issued by US District Judge James Boasberg, continuing on with the flights.

The Trump administration is SO INTENT on deporting immigrants that the impact of their actions on VULNERABLE CHILDREN evades them. So, Representative Fong, in your recent letter to me in which you justified the Trump administration’s immigration policy, reminding me that our country is founded on “the principle of rule of law and our adherence to it,” should not the administration be included in the expectation to abide by law?

Bondi Fires DOJ Paralegal for Obscene Gesture Toward National Guard

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that Attorney General Bondi fired a paralegal at the Department of Justice who allegedly issued an obscene hand gesture to members of the National Guard as they patrolled the streets of Washington, DC. Elizabeth Baxter worked as a paralegal specialist in the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the DOJ. Bondi wrote in a memo to Ms. Baxter, “Based on your inappropriate conduct towards National Guard service members, your employment with the Department of Justice is hereby terminated, and you are removed from federal service effective immediately.” Reports were that Ms. Baxter was seen shouting and using the gesture on several occasions in the weeks prior to her dismissal.

Just weeks ago, Bondi fired another paralegal for throwing a sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection officer outside a popular nightclub area in DC. In the latter case, Bondi sought to secure felony charges against that employee, Scott Dunn, but a grand jury declined to indict. US Attorney Jeanine Piro charged him instead with misdemeanor assault. Physical violence is never acceptable, however; expressing one’s disfavor of the presence of the military on America’s city streets is still within one’s right of freedom of speech.

Many residents in Washington DC have deemed Trump’s National Guard operation as unnecessary, racially motivated, and merely an attempt to intimidate the population with a show of force. The National Guard have not entered areas of the city where most crime is committed but instead patrol tourist areas. They have been seen picking up trash while on patrol, not an appropriate or efficient use of America’s military.

Some residents seem to understand that the National Guard are following orders even though they may not be in agreement with their current assignment. In sympathy, they thank the Guard for their general service to the country as they pass by them. The Washington Post reported that one resident, a retired emergency physician who was attending a pro-Palestinian rally and whose family were military veterans, asked a member of the Guard to consider what commands he would refuse to follow. The member’s response was that the Guard are “good human beings first,” and that they are not “an occupation force,” but are present to “make everybody safe.” The resident replied that the armor and guns did not instill feelings of safety, but actually made many feel less safe. He noted that there are other cities in America which have higher crime rates than DC, closing with a wish that the Guard member would visit the nation’s capital at another time under better circumstances. The Guard member agreed.

Had we never had Trump as president, nor his administration’s constant push for cultural and political divisiveness, these ill-feelings among us would likely never have risen to the degree that they have.

China Hosts Leaders of Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit

Representative Fong:

Reuters reported that Chinese President Xi Jinping held a summit in the port city of Tianjin this week for 20 non-western leaders which included Russian President Putin, North Korean President Kim, and Indian Prime Minister Modi. At the summit, President Xi described his view for a new world order for security and economic growth that challenges the United States and the west. Indirectly criticizing Trump’s tariff policies, Xi said, “We must continue to take a clear stand against hegemonism and power politics, and practice true multilateralism.” The summit was designed to show renewed support of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which was given a boost from the presence of Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Modi. The SCO was formed more than 20 years ago as a regional security alliance. The leaders at the summit demonstrated camaraderie in front of the cameras while the worst war in 80 years rages in Europe between Russia and Ukraine.

Of particular note was the relationship between President Putin and Prime Minister Modi, especially considering the 50% tariff imposed by Trump on Modi for purchasing Russian oil. Just as Trump offered Putin a ride in “the Beast” as a gesture while he was meeting with Putin in Alaska, Putin offered Modi a ride in his armored Aurus limousine en route to their bilateral meeting. China and India are the primary purchasers of Russian oil, the world’s second largest exporter. Trump has not issued tariffs on China for its purchase of Russian oil. Xi announced his “Global Governance Initiative,” a policy framework promoting Chinese leadership, but did not provide specifics other than to tout the stability and economic opportunities that it will provide for Eurasia, a stark contrast to Trump’s chaotic tariffs and punitive sanctions.

The SCO would create a new development bank that would circumvent the US dollar. China will provide 2 billion yuan ($280 million) of free aid to member states this year with a further 10 billion yuan to a SCO banking partnership. The summit will culminate in a huge military parade featuring China’s latest technology, a display meant to deter rivals. Trump’s actions on the world stage which have strained western alliances have given rise to Xi’s call for solidarity, an outcome that may alter economic and military balance in the Asia-Pacific region.

Trump’s Attempt to Fire Lisa Cook

Representative Fong:

Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook’s attorney argued against her firing by the president and requested that a judge block the termination, stating that Governor Cook never committed “mortgage fraud,” as the president is asserting. The statements Governor Cook made on her mortgage applications do not give legal cause for her removal. The definition of legal cause generally is professional neglect or wrongdoing. CNBC reported that nearly 600 economists signed an open letter supporting Cook and defended the Fed’s independence. The letter warned of the consequences if the credibility of the monetary institution was undermined. The NYTimes reported that Cook has claimed that the president does not hold broad powers to remove members of the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors and his attempt to remove her is unlawful.

Additionally, Governor Cook was not given opportunity to respond to the allegations, violating her right to due process. The Department of Justice is making a case that the president has sweeping authority to define what is sufficient cause, and if that were indeed the case, the Federal Reserve would not be protected from political meddling. Trump has been attacking Jerome Powell and now Lisa Cook because of the central bank’s unwillingness to lower interest rates. He has spoken of wanting to add more loyalists to the Federal Reserve, giving him power over the decisions of the institution. Another day, another attempt at a power grab by a rogue president…

Tariffs Declared Illegal

Representative Fong:

CBS News reported that the US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit ruled last Friday that the president went too far when declaring national emergencies to have authority to bypass Congress and impose tariffs on foreign products. A decision by a federal trade court last May issued the same ruling.

However, the latest ruling did not immediately end the tariffs, providing time for the administration to appeal the case to the Supreme Court. Trump believes that the tariffs will bring manufacturing back to the US and contribute billions to the US government, but economists argue against this notion. The challenge to the tariffs came from Democratic states and small businesses who state that the president has exceeded his authority in issuing import duties.

Trump had declared the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) of 1977 as grounds for imposing the tariffs in response to trade deficits that he sees as “a national emergency.” He began imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China for his assessment of their part in illegal immigration and drug trafficking in the US. On April 2, he imposed “reciprocal tariffs” of up to 50% on countries with which the US has a trade deficit, and 10% tariffs on nearly all other countries. Trump later suspended the reciprocal tariffs for 90 days to give opportunities for countries to “negotiate” trade agreements with the US. The UK, Japan, and the EU entered negotiations and agreed to deals Trump proposed to avoid higher tariffs. Those countries who did not comply with Trump’s wishes faced higher tariffs.

The Constitution assigns the power to set taxes, including tariffs, to Congress. The ruling does not apply to all of Trump’s tariffs. Levies on steel, aluminum, and autos were issued under a different regulation which considers those imports vital to US national security. The tariffs placed on China in Trump’s first term are not included in the ruling also because China used unfair practices to give their technology firms an advantage over rivals from the US and other countries. The case on tariffs will ultimately be heard by the Supreme Court.

The government argues that revoking the tariffs will jeopardize the economy, impede the president from imposing tariffs in the future, and undo existing trade deals. Perhaps those outcomes should have been considered before implementation of such a chaotic and extreme economic plan.

Words of Wisdom from Lech Walesa, former President of Poland

Representative Fong:

I had the good fortune to attend a speech and question and answer session delivered by political dissident, Nobel Peace Prize recipient, and former president of Poland, Lech Walesa. I do not need to describe to you, a student of political science, the importance of the historical period in which President Walesa participated. With the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the tumbling of the Berlin Wall, the politics of that era underwent incredible change. President Walesa emphasized in his speech how political ideology is constantly evolving. He reminded us of the importance of globalization, noting that throughout history we have divided ourselves with borders, religion, economic plans, etc. He said that successful nations must DIAGNOSE the problems that plague their citizens and then find resolutions, often in COOPERATION OR ALLIANCE with others. As an example in the current world, he talked of the formation of the European Union in response to economic challenges, resulting in the ability for European citizens to move into and work freely in member countries. Additionally, they agreed upon the formation of a single shared currency. These changes were bold adaptations and forward-thinking.

President Walesa commented that some countries such as Russia and China continue to cling to the past and former ways of governance. Although religions have often divided us, in his case as an unknown dock worker who had a small following, Poland’s high Catholic population was instrumental in supporting his message for democracy and helped him gain popularity. The head of the Catholic Church visited Poland, the first trip of a Pope to a communist regime. The Pope’s message centered on freedom and human rights which served to bolster Walesa’s shared message against authoritarianism. While religion offers FAITH in beliefs that offer solace for humanity’s difficulty in surviving hard times and accepting mortality, perhaps that emotion is translated to the HOPE that politics and governance offer for improvement of the human condition.

President Walesa talked about growing unpopularity of democracy across the world, possibly because with the many RIGHTS that democracy protects comes great RESPONSIBILITY. Those responsibilities are not always easy to shoulder, so people opt for a strongman. What struck me from President Walesa’s speech was that the people of Poland worked fervently to escape the OPPRESSION of life under Communism and gain their FREEDOMS.

Here in the United States, among a population that has ALWAYS known FREEDOM, citizens, including the Congress with its powers to protect democracy, are willing to let our FREEDOMS SLIP AWAY. Many are accepting a strongman taking over the country. For those of us whose families escaped oppression by immigrating to the United States, from whom we learned the incredible value of our personal freedoms, this is a difficult concept to comprehend.

Week of August 24th

Trump’s Choices of Cities for National Guard Presence

Representative Fong:

After having deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC despite no emergency situations warranting the deployment, the president is now indicating he will send National Guard to Chicago, IL and New York City, NY. The National Guard is normally deployed by the governors of states, usually to assist with emergency situations, such as natural disasters. The federal government can call out the National Guard for a particular state with APPROVAL BY THE GOVERNOR AND BY CONGRESS.

According to the Brennan Center for Justice, the White House is justifying its attempt to take over the DC Police Department and deployment of the National Guard in DC in response to “out-of-control” violent crime. The rise and fall of crime is not an “emergency” that would justify a federal takeover of the DC police, even though the president does have command authority over the DC National Guard. In Los Angeles, Trump’s justification was that the National Guard was to assist Immigration and Customs Enforcement with the apprehension of undocumented immigrants, thus providing indirect support to law enforcement.

A well-defined line between the military and civilian law enforcement is an important protection of democracy and individual liberties. The ability to turn an army on its own people is a component of tyranny and oppression.

Military personnel are trained to be soldiers, not law enforcement officers. The governors of Illinois and New York have not requested or approved deployment of the National Guard in their states. The BBC reported that Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago had not received any information about deployment of the National Guard to his city, so such an effort is in his words, “uncoordinated, uncalled for, and unsound.” At the same time, Secretary of Defense Hegseth has just ordered the Guard members in DC to be ARMED, although he said only one week prior that they would not be carrying weapons.

As Trump is focusing on crime in American cities as his justification to send in troops, he has only focused on cities run by Democratic mayors in states with Democratic governors. Crime statistics show Memphis, TN as THE MOST CRIME-RIDDEN CITY in the nation. Also in the TOP TEN are St. Louis, MO; Birmingham, AL; Littlerock, AR; Kansas City, MO; New Orleans, Louisiana; Cleveland, OH; and Houston, TX. The president has not mentioned these cities in his attacks on crime in America. I am not convinced of the president’s motives in militarizing our nation’s cities, especially since his decisions are not based on statistics.

Kilmar Abrego Garcia Deportation Options

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reported an update on Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a construction worker from Maryland, who became prominent in the media for his unlawful treatment by the US government when he was detained in March and wrongfully deported to a notorious prison in his native El Salvador without due process. He was released and returned to the US in June but was charged with human smuggling and accused of being affiliated with a gang, accusations that he and his attorneys claim are false and vindictive. Since his return to the US, he was held in a jail in Tennessee. Abrego Garcia was released last Friday and reunited with his family, only to be detained again on Monday with the threat of a second deportation. His attorneys filed a lawsuit to fight his deportation until a court hears his claim for protection. The government has offered him deportation to Costa Rica, a country in which Spanish, Abrego Garcia’s native language is spoken, and in which he will be set free and can live as a legal resident, IF HE PLEADS GUILTY TO THE CHARGES AGAINST HIM.

Alternatively, he will be deported to Uganda, an African country where “his safety cannot be assured.” With the deportation to Costa Rica being the preferable choice of the two, Abrego Garcia faces pleading guilty UNDER DURESS, or asserting his innocence and having a very uncertain future in a country in which he cannot communicate, is not assured his freedom, and is not certain of the agreement held between the United States government and Uganda. The NY Times reported that Uganda, along with other African nations such as Rwanda, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), and South Sudan, agreed to accept migrants temporarily from the US only if they did not hold criminal records, or were unaccompanied minors. Uganda was being considered in Trump’s sweeping travel ban issued earlier in the year, which indicated that a country could avoid the ban if it agreed to accept US deportees.

Fortunately, a blanket court order has paused the deportation of all immigrants from Maryland who are challenging their detention for two days. Therefore, the situation for Mr. Abrego Garcia is still uncertain. We MUST PAY ATTENTION to his plight because in witnessing his situation, we can expect that the government will persist in similar unlawful treatment of people on American soil, treatment which could easily extend to others that it perceives as unworthy of living here, or to those who do not support Trump’s agenda. We can safely assume that is EXACTLY THE MESSAGE the government wants us to receive loudly and clearly.

Meddling in South Korean Politics

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that at Trump’s meeting with the South Korean leader President Lee Jae Myung yesterday in the Oval Office, the relationship between the two long-allied nations seemed strained. Trump praised dictator of North Korea, Kim Jong-un, and reminded the South Korean president of his positive relationship with him. Trump even offered to arrange a meeting between Mr. Kim and Mr. Lee, disrespectfully rubbing salt in an open wound. Kim Jung-un only recently rejected President Lee’s efforts to ease tensions between the two nations by stating, “no matter what policy is adopted and whatever proposal is made in Seoul, we have no interest in it.”

Although Trump talked about the important alliance between South Korea and the United States, he could not refrain from discussing at length his past meeting with Kim Jung-un and said he looked forward to meeting with him again in the future. The aligning that Trump enjoys with authoritarian leaders at the expense of diminishing our longstanding alliances with democracies causes embarrassment for American citizens who see it as a BETRAYAL OF OUR NATIONAL VALUES. Even many who voted for Trump based on his campaign promises are not on board with this global turn of events. Americans are NOT IN AGREEMENT with Trump’s cozy relationships with Putin, Kim, Orban, Erdogan, and other authoritarian leaders, or with Trump’s continuous efforts to have the US move further on HIS DETERMINED PATH TO AUTOCRACY.

FEMA Funding Dramatically Reduced

Representative Fong:

Congress passed a law after Hurricane Katrina caused enormous damage 20 years ago when it struck the Gulf Coast, vowing to strengthen the federal disaster response. Contrary to that commitment, the Trump administration has diminished the ability of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to respond to emergency situations. The NYTimes reported that employees of FEMA sent a letter to Congress this week to express concern about the lack of support the administration has had for FEMA and has reversed its ability to support states in response to natural disasters. The Trump administration has shifted the responsibility of disaster management and the enormous costs to the states. FEMA employees warned that the administration’s reversal could result in catastrophic events for the nation in face of another national disaster such as Hurricane Katrina, which caused 1,833 deaths and $161 billion in property damage and diminished the nation’s faith in government preparedness. If FEMA is dissolved as the president has intimated he would like to do in the past, Americans will be vulnerable in the face of storms, floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and other such disasters.

A wealthy nation such as ours should be allocating funds to meet the needs of the American people, instead of inventing reasons to put military on our city streets to intimidate and make a show of strength. States are not equipped to handle the extent of damage that natural disasters can wreak on our nation. NBC News reported that the letter submitted by nearly 200 FEMA employees prompted the Trump administration to put 21 of these FEMA workers on administrative leave. The letter indicated that the head of the agency lacked “legal qualification, Senate approval, and the demonstrated background required of a FEMA Administrator.” The removal of these civil servants who are calling attention to inadequacies of the agency is yet another example of the vindictive nature of this administration. Speaking truth to power results in negative consequences for the brave individuals who stand for what is best for the nation.

Health Secretary at Odds with Science

Representative Fong:

The Secretary of Health and Human Services has asked the Senate-confirmed Director of the CDC, Dr. Monarez, to resign. Because in her view, she is “protecting the public over serving a political agenda,” Dr. Monarez had indicated she would not leave the position unless the president fired her. Dr. Monarez has only been in this position for one month. The White House press secretary Leavitt announced today that Mr. Trump had indeed fired Dr. Monarez, although he had not commented on the situation. Three other high-ranking CDC officials resigned in protest of Dr. Monarez’s termination.

Public health experts are greatly concerned over the future of the CDC and shudder at the thought of what could happen in the face of another pandemic or major health crisis. Secretary Kennedy insisted that Dr. Monarez fire agency leadership and agree with the recommendations that were made by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Policy, a panel that was recently COMPLETELY REPLACED WITH VACCINE SKEPTICS by Secretary Kennedy. The vaccine advisory panel will not meet again until September 18 and 19 to provide their recommendations for a wide array of vaccines, delaying the process into the start of the flu season. Dr. Monarez contacted Senator Bill Cassidy, Republican from Louisiana who is chair of the Senate Health Committee about the Health Secretary’s demands. Senator Cassidy had been reluctant to vote to confirm RFK, Jr. as Health Secretary, and only did so with his promise NOT TO WITHHOLD VACCINES from the American people. Senator Cassidy contacted Secretary Kennedy which angered him and made him spout unfounded criticisms of the shortcomings of the CDC. Dr. Monarez has indicated that to remain in her job at the CDC, she vowed she would never do anything illegal or anything that “flew in the face of science.” Sadly, as is so often the case in this administration, Dr. Monarez was asked to do both. Senator Cassidy, who is also a physician, has said that the recent events will “require oversight.” He has delayed the September meetings by the vaccine advisory committee and said any recommendations that they make should be “rejected as lacking legitimacy.”

Members of the Senate Health Committee believe Secretary Kennedy should be fired for destroying public health in America. I AGREE.

Trump Inability to Influence Putin and Lack of Resolve in Ending War

Representative Fong:

Politico reported that the Trump administration offered a “subdued response” to Russia’s increased attack on Kyiv, the largest assault on Ukraine since Putin met with Trump in Alaska two weeks ago. European leaders pointed out that these attacks are proof that Russia is not serious about attaining peace. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt tried to justify Russia’s attack that killed 19 people including four children as retaliation over Ukraine’s attack on Russian refineries last month. She said that the president was not happy about Russia’s aggression, but that he was not surprised, repeating that HE BLAMES BOTH COUNTRIES for the lack of progress in negotiations.

Finland’s president wrote on social media that “Russia has no intentions of ending this war.” French President Macron complained that launching 600 missiles and drones is “Russia’s idea of peace.” The European leaders have had to continue to bring Trump’s focus to the continual casualties and shake him from his insistence that Putin would like the war to end. Trump finally imposed additional tariffs on India, raising the rate to 50 percent to punish India for purchasing Russian oil. This decision does not stop Indian oil trade with Russia because India puts its national interest ahead of its trade relationship with the United States. In response to the hefty tariff, India will likely broaden its trade with Latin America and the Middle East.

NO ADDITIONAL ECONOMIC SANCTIONS have been placed on Russia. Despite Trump’s indication that the Russians had agreed to have a future trilateral meeting with Ukraine and the US, Russia has denied a peace summit and ruled out strengthening Ukraine’s future security. Either Donald Trump is unable to comprehend the glaring facts that face him, or he is complicit in Russia’s illegitimate war on Ukraine and is content to see the conflict continue. In either case, EVERYONE in Congress and across the nation should be expressing their outrage with Trump’s incompetence in handling this situation.

Dismissal of Head of Defense Intelligence Agency

Representative Fong:

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth fired Air Force Lt. General Jeffrey Kruse, the head of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA). The firing came as a result of Lt. Gen. Kruse’s preliminary intelligence assessment of the June 2025 US airstrikes on Iran which contradicted Trump’s claims that the strikes “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear sites. Hegseth was quick to repeat the president’s language in assessing the situation long before an adequate evaluation could be made. Lt. Gen. Kruse indicated the strikes caused limited damage and set back Iran’s nuclear program by several months. The termination of an official for merely stating facts that do not align with the president’s is commonplace in Trump administrations.

Mark Esper, Secretary of Defense, in Trump’s first administration was fired for disagreeing with the president on use of active-duty military to handle civil unrest. Trump has no regard for the lawful protections that state personnel can only be removed from their positions for “neglect of duty or malfeasance.” Trump threatens removal of members of the Federal Trade Commission and the Federal Reserve Board, even though presidential involvement in these entities would damage their independence and harm the country.

Most recently, Dr. Monarez, Director of the CDC, was dismissed for not agreeing to support health recommendations that conflict with scientific data. The members of the administration who remain in their positions are the ones who are silent about their disagreement with the president, no matter how outrageous or farfetched his views are.

We cannot trust an administration of sycophants to do what is best for the citizens of our country when they are unable to speak truth to power. During the most recent cabinet meeting, Trump received continuous adulation from each and every member of the group. One cabinet member proposed that Trump’s “big and beautiful face” should grace a banner at the Department of Labor! Even the saving of the whales and of college football were attributed to Trump!

If this were not the government of the United States of America, such a display would have instigated fits of uncontrollable laughter at the utter ridiculous and excessive kowtowing. The performance of the cabinet members was in the manner one would expect to see in North Korea or Russia, countries led by a “dictator.” Trump announced at the meeting that “a lot of people” would like him to be a dictator. He is WRONG. He has been seriously misled in this belief by the praise of his fawning cabinet who do not dare to disagree with him.

Week of August 17th

Federalizing Law Enforcement in Washington, DC

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that as the Trump administration deploys federal law enforcement in Washington, DC, residents of the nation’s capital are feeling alarmed, as are citizens across the nation. Approximately 800 members of the National Guard arrived on the streets of DC this week. The federal government took over the DC police in an unprecedented move with the stated goal of eradicating violent crime. The National Guard cleared homeless encampments, conducted traffic checkpoints, and made arrests. The government also indicated that it would use the National Guard to expand its crackdown on immigration.

Attorney General Bondi issued a formal order for the takeover of the DC police department and installed a federal officer as an “emergency police commissioner.” However, the NYTimes reported that a federal district court judge for the District of Columbia intervened and the Trump administration backed down, at least temporarily, allowing the city’s police chief to remain in charge of the police force. The city brought suit against the president for moving to take over the city’s police department which it claims was “a brazen usurpation of the district’s authority.” The police chief indicated she was not aware of the president’s plan to take control until he announced it at a press conference.

This action of the federal government is a threat to law and order in our country. Trump is again using “emergency” orders to broaden his power. He has stated that he plans to take the same action in urban areas in other blue states. I am OPPOSED to federalizing law enforcement in our country. I am suspicious of the president’s motives, considering that although crime definitely exists in every city in the nation, statistics show that crime is actually declining. Flooding cities with OVERWHELMING FORCE does not address urban problems such as youth violence or homelessness which are rooted in poverty, trauma, and lack of services. Local police departments are accountable to the city residents among which they live, but the National Guard is not.

Negotiations to End Putin’s War on Ukraine

Representative Fong:

In view of the president’s inability to stay on task and how easily influenced he is by the authoritarian leaders that he admires so much, I am encouraged to see that President Zelenskyy will be accompanied at his meeting today with Trump by seven members of the European community. This support will ensure that the Ukrainian president will not be demeaned, blamed, and made to believe that he alone has the power to end the war by capitulating to the demands of Putin in the way that he was treated during the infamous White House meeting with Trump and Vance earlier this year. Trump went into his meeting with Putin this week with the objective of achieving an agreement to a cease fire, but after LITERALLY ROLLING OUT THE RED CARPET for the aggressor in this war and indicted war criminal on American soil, Trump backed down from his threat to increase sanctions on Russia as he originally promised.

Clearly, Trump is not the person to negotiate peace between these two nations, especially when he constantly touts his “accomplishments” of ending “six wars” through his “gift” of deal-making, insinuating that he should be considered for a Nobel Peace Prize. As usual, he is not concerned about the people who are dying every day to protect the sovereignty of Ukraine, despite his periodic rhetoric about wanting the deaths to stop, or the risks that this conflict poses to the world as a whole, but only about his own GLORIFICATION.

The fact that the Europeans understand how crucial their attendance is at the meeting for the future of Ukraine and Europe is reassuring, even though it is a terrible embarrassment for the American people to have such an inept leader that he needs to be monitored, constantly instructed and reminded about what is truly at stake, and cajoled.

Trump Attempts to Change Voting System

Representative Fong:

TIME reported President Trump announced yesterday while meeting with President Zelenskyy that he will use an executive order to end the practice of voting by mail, stating without any evidence that it is a corrupt practice. The US Constitution directs state legislatures to determine the “time, places and manner” of holding elections. Consequently, some states have a vote-by-mail option.

The president lied when posting that “We are the only Country in the World that uses Mail-In-Voting.” The International Institute for Democracy & Electoral Assistance (IDEA) reports that 34 countries allow postal voting and 12 of those allow mail-in ballots for ALL voters. Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany allow voting by mail. Many countries upscaled their voting practices during the pandemic to protect public health and have continued the practice. The Brennan Center for Justice, the Bipartisan Policy Center, and the Center for Election Innovation and Research found that vote-by-mail methods increase options for voters and that the 2020 election was not corrupted in any way, despite the use of mail-in-voting. Ironically, the Republican Party encouraged mail-in voting during the 2024 election in their efforts to turn out more voters.

The system has many safeguards such as signature requirements and barcodes that track envelopes sent by officials. The US Election Assistance Commission found that nearly one third of ballots cast in the 2024 election were through the mail, and since Trump won that election, he is not questioning the validity of the mail-in vote for that particular election. Because of Trump’s claims of fraudulent activity related to mail-in voting, 19 states have put mail-in voting restrictions in place since 2020. For those who have not recognized Trump’s abysmal record for truth, Trump’s disinformation continues to be detrimental to the confidence that Americans have in our elections. By poisoning the waters, Trump paves a path to shout “fraud” when voting outcomes do not go as he likes. Been there, done that, sick of that!

Trump’s Desperate Attempts to Impact Elections

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that Trump’s comments regarding vote-by-mail practices were instigated by his most recent meeting with President Vladimir Putin who reinforced Trump’s view that postal ballots “rigged” the 2020 election. Trump stated, “Vladimir Putin, smart guy, said you can’t have an honest election with mail-in-voting.” I am not sure when the leader of an autocracy became an expert on free and fair elections in our constitutional democracy, but mail-in-voting actually exists in Russia, so as we have seen many times previously, information provided by Putin cannot be trusted. Putin has “won” elections (although purportedly “rigged” in his favor) and has served as president or prime minister of Russia for 22 years!

During his tenure, Putin changed Russia, which was a nascent democracy to an autocracy, using force to achieve his goals. Putin drafted a constitutional amendment in 2020 that would allow him to remain president for two more terms. Trump is certainly paying attention to the tactics of this strongman for whom he holds such high regard.

Trump has also recently encouraged Republicans to gerrymander congressional districts to impact the mid-term elections, even though that process of redistricting is usually conducted following the ten-year census. Politico reported that Trump is looking for other ways to disenfranchise voters by putting forth the idea that the last census was inaccurate, again not providing an iota of evidence. He is calling for a new census to be conducted NOW, even though preparations for the next census are already underway for 2030 because the process requires immense planning. The census is a constitutionally mandated count of EVERY PERSON in the United States every 10 years. It was last conducted in 2020 and was the 24^th decennial census. A full census has NEVER been conducted mid-decade, and noncitizens have never been excluded from the count.

The census determines how many House seats every state gets and how billions of dollars in federal, state, and local funding are allocated. Trump tried to include a citizenship question in the census during his first term, but the Supreme Court struck down the attempt in 2019. Future attempts to alter the census system will surely face many legal battles. All Americans, Republicans and Democrats alike, should be standing for free and fair elections and should block Trump’s unethical attempts to corrupt our election process.

Strengthening of Europe in Face of Weakened America

Representative Fong:

As Trump weakens nearly every aspect of our society from cultural ideology, government structure, economy, health, education, global position, etc., I am heartened to see that Europe has come together to fill the vacuum that the United States has created in the broader world. The European Union has become increasingly vocal about world issues, has united in their stand against Putin by providing support for Ukraine, has increased their ability to defend themselves by building more munitions and allocating more funding towards defense, and has stood against the bullying tactics that Trump has used in his attempt to upset free trade. I am saddened that we have excluded ourselves by Trump’s outrageous behaviors from the traditional alliances that we have held with Europe and our closer neighbors, Canada and Mexico.

Americans in general are not comfortable with this repositioning and do not embrace the tenets of autocracy and/or theocracy that the Trump administration attempts to shove down our throats. Nearly every immigrant who came here did so to ensure freedom from the very tactics that Trump and his Project 2025 orchestrators have been attempting to impose on us every single day since the beginning of Trump’s administration.

We are a nation comprised of people of many different racial, ethnic, gender orientations, religious beliefs, and cultural values. We cannot be forced to present ourselves as a white, patriarchal, Christian, militarized state, no matter how many people are gathered up and deported, no matter how many laws are overturned to subjugate women, people of color, LBGTQ individuals, no matter to what degree our history is distorted, etc. The government cannot take away the civil rights that our nation has worked so hard to assert without pushback from fellow citizens.

In a democratic system, people with CONSERVATIVE values are NOT IMPEDED from living their lives in the way they choose. No one stops them from attending worship services, from sending their children to private or parochial schools rather than public schools, from refusing birth control or abortions, from suppressing their homosexuality, from choosing the healthcare they deem appropriate (or not), etc., just as long as they are not imposing THEIR CHOICES on other members of society.

In the same vein, CONSERVATIVES CANNOT STOP those who do not share their values to accept lives they do not choose for themselves. Many of our European nations have recognized and accepted their differences, but in finding common objectives, they are able to work together to achieve goals that will benefit them all. We have a lot to learn from these different but allied nations.

Trump Increases Government Involvement in American Business: Socialism

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that our government intervened in Intel, the Silicon Valley chipmaker, striking an agreement in which Intel would sell a 10 percent stake in its business to the US government. Since the rescue of the auto industry following the 2008 financial crisis, this is the largest intervention of government in business to date. Intel is worth $8.9 billion. Trump announced the deal with Intel’s chief executive, Lip-Bu Tan, to whom he is quoted saying, “I think it would be good having the United States as your partner.” Intel said the government will invest $8.9 billion in its stock in addition to the $2.2 billion that the government paid the company under the CHIPS and Science Act, the federal program signed into law in 2022 that was designed to revive semiconductor manufacturing. At least, the government will not hold a board seat, or have other governance rights, as was the case with the deal Trump negotiated with Nippon in order for the Japanese company to purchase US Steel.

The deal with Intel was a way for Trump to be involved in the CHIPS and Science Act that was a Biden administration accomplishment. Of course, Trump demeaned President Biden’s innovation in revitalizing the semiconductor industry in the process of his deal. Trump first called for CEO Tan’s RESIGNATION earlier this month in a media post, complaining of the executive’s ownership in Chinese companies. With that ARM TWISTING, along with the government’s withholding some of Intel’s federal grants, Mr. Tan met only days later with Trump at the White House to strike a deal. Trump bragged that Tan came into the meeting trying to keep his job and left “giving us $10 billion.” The deal may be protested by shareholders or contested for its legality. The Trump administration is converting a government grant under the Biden administration to equity.

Trump has threatened to take away government grants from other chip companies, consequently making “deals” with Nvidia and AMD. He has restricted billions of dollars in sales of AI chips to China only to change his mind and proposed high tariffs on chips made outside the US, while demanding that chipmakers increase their investments in new US factories in order to receive grants promised by the Biden administration. Trump indicated the government is exploring other actions to take to boost Intel.

The concern is that government officials could pressure other companies to become Intel customers. When a GOVERNMENT OWNS THE MEANS OF PRODUCTION IN A COMPANY, that is called SOCIALISM. Trump has no plans to stop his interventionist policy in American business as president of the US. Is anybody in Congress paying attention?

California’s Response to Texas Power Grab Through Gerrymandering

Representative Fong:

The Republicans in Texas approved redrawing a new map of congressional districts to switch control of five seats from Democratic control to Republican. The Texas Senate will now take the issue to vote, prompted by fears that with the very unpopular Trump administration, the party will lose seats in the 2026 midterm elections. Despite Democrat’s attempts to delay the process in Texas by leaving the state, they were unsuccessful in ultimately stopping the redistricting outside of the usual ten-year process. Fortunately, Democrats were successful by this tactic to bring attention to the fact that Republicans are attempting to put electoral power in the hands of white voters by redrawing their maps, even though Texas is seeing an increase of people of color in its population.

Trump encouraged Texans to engage in this gerrymandering and is now calling for the same tactic in Florida, Indiana, and other Republican states. As he has done in his previous campaigns, Trump has also started his pre-election speeches with the objective of destroying American confidence in the election system by saying mail-in-voting and voting machines result in fraudulent outcomes, even though he had no problem with these practices when they were used in the last election that he won.

Although I believe, as I have said previously, that each state should have a non-partisan committee that draws congressional maps following the census taken every ten years, JUST AS WE NOW HAVE IN CALIFORNIA, I understand our governor’s attempt to even the playing field by having us vote to counter Texas’s recent redrawing of its map by REDRAWING OUR OWN MAP before the next election and I support it. We cannot simply roll over and allow Republicans to engage in unethical practices, practices that will corrupt the process, while we continue to hold our heads high and maintain fair practices.

ON THE SAME DAY that the governor announced that the process of changing the map would be the subject of a special election this fall, we received a flyer in the mail sponsored by billionaire Charles Munger, Jr. denouncing the special election. I believe Californians are in agreement with Mr. Munger and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger that having a non-partisan commission to redraw maps every ten years is what is BEST for our state (and would be BEST FOR EVERY STATE), but until we see Republicans support ethical elections across the nation, we must act temporarily in this way to counter their abuse of the system. I applaud Governor Newsom’s initiative in facing the challenge that Trump and Republicans place before us.

Week of August 3rd

Use of Ankle Monitors by ICE

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has increased the use of GPS-enabled ankle monitors on immigrants to broaden surveillance of people targeted for deportation. Approximately 183,000 adult migrants have consented to mandatory check-ins and this type of electronic tracking as part of the Alternative to Detention Program while awaiting their cases to be resolved. At present 24,000 of these individuals wear the ankle monitors, with pregnant women instead wearing a wrist tracking device. The use of ankle device monitoring is significantly increased now, even though the devices have been used for 20 years.

Although cheaper and somewhat more humane than detention, the devices are physically uncomfortable and the immigrants who wear them and their advocates have argued that they pose a social stigma and invade their privacy, especially considering that those wearing them have no criminal record or history of missed court appearances. A senior staff attorney at the non-profit group “Just Futures” which has completed research on the ICE tracking devices stated that the system is “designed to turn their own communities and homes into digital cages.”

The expanded use of these devices will boost business for “Geo Group,” a Boca Raton, FL private prison company that previously employed at least two of Trump’s top immigration officials who donated over $1.5 million to the president’s 2024 campaign and to his inaugural committee. The tracking device program is run by” BI Inc.,” a subsidiary of “Geo Group” that started business in the 1970s by selling devices to farmers to monitor their cattle.

From 2008 to 2018, the American Immigration Council, an immigrant rights group, found that 83% of non-detained immigrants with completed or pending removal cases attended ALL OF THEIR COURT HEARINGS.

Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response

Representative Fong:

STAT and Heather Cox Richardson of Substack have reported that biosecurity expert Gerald Parker was selected as head of the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response. Mr. Parker was a former Doctor of Veterinarian Medicine and commander of the US Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases. His selection was reassuring for his experience, his ability to coordinate government agencies, and his understanding of global cooperation in times of a medical crisis such as a pandemic. Gerald Parker had bipartisan support. In the past few weeks, however, Mr. Parker resigned from the position, just about six months after he began. Surprisingly, it was discovered that Mr. Parker was never formally appointed to the office. He was instead a part of the National Security Council (NSC) as senior director for biosecurity and pandemic preparedness, not head of the pandemic preparedness office (which Trump has threatened to abolish). In the NSC position, Mr. Parker was locked out of talking to Health and Human Services experts who work on research grants. He was working on an executive order to ban federally funded gain-of-function (genetically modifying an organism to enhance a biological function) research and aimed at limiting and tracking gain-of-function research that was not federally funded.

The American people should know that the Office of Pandemic Preparedness and Response is and has been without a leader during the current administration. Knowing what the nation faced during the recent pandemic with more than a million deaths and its serious blow to the economy and supply chains, I believe this position is vital for the security of our nation.

Investigation Launched into Prosecutor Jack Smith

Representative Fong:

CNN reported that an independent watchdog agency has opened an investigation into Jack Smith, the Justice Department special counsel who brought two criminal cases against Donald Trump prior to his campaign last year. The Office of Special Counsel announced that it is alleging that Smith engaged in political activity through his inquiries into Trump while serving as special counsel under Attorney General Merrick Garland in November 2022. The agency now investigating Smith is separate from his previous title of special counsel and has no power of enforcing criminal proceedings, but can levy fines and other sanctions if violations are found.

The Hatch Act, a federal law, bans certain public officials from engaging in political activity. Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas urged this investigation, stating that Smith’s investigation served to bolster the campaign of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the 2024 election. The two cases that Jack Smith brought against Trump were one accusing him of CONSPIRING TO OVERTURN THE RESULTS OF THE 2020 ELECTION and another accusing Trump of HOARDING CLASSIFIED DOCUMENTS at his estate in Florida. The two cases were presented in 2023, more than a year before the election. The evidence showed CLEAR VIOLATIONS of federal laws.

The Trump campaign repeatedly accused Jack Smith of having political motives, but BREAKING THE LAW IS BREAKING THE LAW. Sadly, when Trump won the election in November, both cases were dropped because of the Justice Department policy prohibiting indictment of a sitting president, a policy with which I strongly disagree. When criminal activity goes unprosecuted, and justice is not served, ALL AMERICANS LOSE. Our safety and confidence in the rule of law is thwarted when criminals do not have consequences (think of the presidential pardons of the convicted Jan 6 insurrectionists, for example).

Trump has sent a loud message that some, especially the president, receive preferential treatment no matter how blatantly they violate the law. This is the leader with whom you have chosen to align yourself, so how could you ever expect us to trust your decision-making for us?

Trump Suspends Half a Billion in Funding from UCLA

Representative Fong:

Politico reported that half a billion dollars in federal research funding has been suspended from UCLA, your alma mater, by Donald Trump who is accusing the university of antisemitism. The Department of Justice announced last week that the university was being investigated for violations of civil rights laws. UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk (whose father was Jewish and had to flee Nazi Germany) confirmed that the grant money is “suspended and at risk” and was slated for hundreds of research projects in a broad array of fields. He defended the university by saying that protecting the interests of the students, faculty, and staff has been a priority, while still maintaining the university’s values and principles. The president of the University of California system James Milliken is not responding to the stance that will be taken in upcoming dialogue with the Trump administration.

The cuts to research funding have nothing to do with antisemitism. Milliken indicated that extensive work has been done to combat antisemitism which the Trump administration ignores. UCLA is only the most recent university to face intimidation by the Trump administration. Columbia University faced losing $400 million in research grants and they eventually negotiated, succumbing under White House pressure and agreeing to pay $200 million. Brown University agreed to pay $50 million to have its funding released. Harvard University is still trying to resolve its case involving devastating cuts to its research programs. UCLA was embroiled in a lawsuit with a professor and Jewish students who alleged that the university did not do enough to protect them from harassment and discrimination by pro-Palestinian protestors last year and agreed to pay a $6.5 million settlement. The DOJ threatened UCLA’s research funds ON THE SAME DAY as UCLA’s settlement.

Antisemitism or discrimination of any kind should never be tolerated at our nation’s institutes of higher learning (or anywhere, for that matter). However, the Trump administration seems to be taking advantage of these situations by threatening research funding and seriously penalizing academic programs. These financial penalties DO NOTHING TO IMPROVE THE CULTURAL CLIMATE on our nation’s university campuses.

Meanwhile, Cal Matters reported that federal district court judge, Rita F. Lin, is ordering a response from the Trump administration to explain why these grants continue to be suspended when she had ordered that previously suspended funds be restored and that further termination of funding is barred. This legal challenge from the UC system is the first in response to cancellation of funding for DEI violations and alleged antisemitism. My hope is that it will be the first of many to stop Trump’s war on academia.

Gerrymandering

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reported on the long history of political redistricting in our country in light of the Republican effort to redraw voting districts in Texas to increase their chances of gaining seats in the mid-term elections. This manipulation of legislative district maps is usually conducted every ten years following each census to balance districts. Some states have entrusted redistricting to special commissions that are comprised of bipartisan citizens. With this recent attempt by Texas to redraw the maps OUTSIDE of the ten-year census period, Democrats are talking about making a similar move and sidestepping these commissions to redraw their districts to counter the redrawing that Republicans are attempting to do.

In states where a political party controls both the legislature and the governor’s office, or where a legislative majority can override a veto, districts can be redrawn to their advantage. Voters can be spread across multiple districts, or voters of the opposing party can be packed into a few districts.

Gerrymandering is not illegal under the Constitution. The Supreme Court ruled in a 2019 case from North Carolina that federal courts have no authority to decide if partisan gerrymandering goes too far. Justice Roberts wrote: “The Constitution supplies no objective measure for assessing whether a districting map treats a political party fairly.” State courts are able to weigh specific cases, but some states believe even state courts have no authority.

However, if redistricting is done on racial grounds, it is considered in violation of the Voting Rights Act. Research has shown that REPUBLICANS HAVE GAINED POLITICAL ADVANTAGE FROM GERRYMANDERING IN MORE STATES in the past 50 years. By adopting redistricting commissions in Democratic states, gerrymandering has been limited. An AP analysis of the 2022 election showed that Republicans won only one more US House seat than expected based on the average share of the vote they received nationwide. That election was the most politically balanced in many years. Because of the scramble to gain seats NOW in such a closely divided nation as ours, I believe that redistricting should be done by bipartisan commissions in all fifty states to ENCOURAGE FAIRNESS AND TO REMOVE POLITICIANS FROM THE PROCESS.

The current attempt in Texas was encouraged by the president who understands the JEOPARDY THAT HIS BUDGET BILL HAS CREATED FOR REPUBLICANS WHO FAILED TO STAND FOR THE BEST INTERESTS OF THEIR CONSTITUTENTS. Therefore, I understand why Democrats have chosen to leave the state in protest to undermine a quorum.

Firing of Two FBI Agents for Investigations of the January 6, 2021 Insurrection

Representative Fong:

Multiple news outlets reported that two FBI agents were let go for their investigations of Donald Trump’s ties to the January 6, 2021 insurrection, the WORST CRIME AGAINST THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER in our country. If the FBI should be investigating SERIOUS law-breaking in the United States, then THIS CRIME certainly qualified as one meriting investigation.

Brian Driscoll served as acting director of the FBI in the weeks before Trump’s pick for director was installed as director. He resisted a Justice Department directive to provide a list of agents who had worked on January 6 cases. The list included thousands of employees across the nation, including Driscoll himself. He is widely perceived as a hero among the rank-and-file members of the FBI for his resistance. Driscoll, who has worked for nearly 20 years for the FBI, was not given a reason for his dismissal. In a letter he released to his colleagues, he stated, “…Our collective sacrifices for those we serve is, and will always be, worth it. I regret nothing. You are my heroes and I remain in your debt.” Mr. Driscoll was a recipient of the FBI Medal of Valor and the FBI Shield of Bravery for his courageous service.

Steve Jensen, former acting director of the Washington Field Office of the FBI was also fired. Jensen told his colleagues he would “meet this challenge with professionalism, integrity, and dignity.” He encouraged his fellow agents not to waver in their resolve to protect Americans and UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION.

Current director of the FBI, Kash Patel, said at his confirmation proceedings that FBI employees “WILL BE PROTECTED AGAINST POLITICAL RETRIBUTION.” We should not be surprised that another unscrupulous member of the Trump administration boldly lied in order to receive a confirmation, only to do whatever unethical tasks the corrupt president requests. The FBI Agents Association, a nonprofit group that supports current and former agents, stated that agents do not select the cases to which they are assigned.

Firing agents WITHOUT DUE PROCESS for doing their jobs of investigating federal crimes makes Americans less safe. Regrettably, our nation continues to be turned upside down with nearly every institution being gravely damaged. Rest assured that we are noticing EVERY SINGLE ILLEGAL STEP.

Response to Texas Democratic Legislators Who Fled the State to Undermine GOP Quorum

Representative Fong:

ABC News reported that Texas Governor Abbott has ordered police to hunt down and arrest Democrats who fled the state to protest GOP redistricting. The civil warrants cannot be enforced as long as Democrats remain outside of Texas. The governor has admitted that he is pursuing new districts to dismantle current “coalition districts” (where racial minority groups make up most of the population). The governor accuses the Democrats of accepting bribes (such an absurd notion brimming with hypocrisy when he fully supports Donald Trump’s hugely transactional presidency) if they are receiving donations to help cover the costs of the large financial penalties that are being levied on them each day of their absence. He has also threatened to remove them from the jobs for which they were elected. Newsweek reported that the president has said the FBI may become involved in the process! The legislators have not broken federal laws and FBI involvement would be a misuse of federal resources. Whether federal authorities ultimately take action or whether the governor follows through with his threats remains to be seen.

The ACLU released a statement stating, “Gov. Abbott’s attempt to remove democratically elected lawmakers is a dangerous effort to overturn elections and undermine our democracy. It’s especially hypocritical coming from a governor who is letting the 18th Congressional District – home to many Black and Brown Houstonians – sit empty for more than eight months…Whether pushing to oust elected officials or to redraw voting maps mid-decade, Abbott has shown he’s more interested in disenfranchising voters of color than in ensuring fair representation.

Let’s be clear: In a democracy, it’s the will of the voters – not the will of the governor – that should decide who represents us.”

Week of July 27th

Trump’s Intimidation of the Federal Reserve

Representative Fong:

USA Today reported that the Trump’s intimidation of the Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell continues as Trump made a rare visit to the Federal Reserve Headquarters to inspect an ongoing renovation. Trump has accused Chair Powell of potential fraud in the renovation of two historic buildings on the National Mall. Following his review of the premises, Trump produced a document stating that the cost of the project had increased from $2.5 billion to $3.1 billion. Chair Powell reviewed the document and quickly disputed the claim, revealing that Trump’s calculations included a third building that had been completed in 2020. How encouraging to see someone fact-check the president and immediately point out his error, especially as the president attempts to demean and bully him!

Trump has been threatening to fire Chair Powell, even though the Federal Reserve operates separately from the White House, because he believes Powell should lower interest rates. Powell, who was appointed by Trump in 2017, is slated to end his term in 2026, but he will continue to serve on the Federal Board through 2028. Powell has said that Trump’s massive tariffs on imports is the reason to keep rates unchanged. Inflation accelerated in June, a fact that Trump denies. Trump should allow Jerome Powell and the Federal Reserve Board to do their job without constant harassment. The central bank should be immune from political pressure. By threatening Powell and the Federal Reserve, the president is further undermining our political institutions and destabilizing the economy.

Trump Fires Labor Statistics Commissioner After Weak Jobs Report

Representative Fong:

Multiple news agencies reported today that the president fired the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics just hours after a government report released information showing that the economy has slowed. Commissioner Erika McEntarfer was terminated after data showed that hiring had slowed significantly in the past three months. The president made a claim with no evidence that the jobs report was produced for political purposes and was not accurate. He accused Labor Statistics of producing numbers that are “RIGGED” in order to make Republicans and the president look bad. The Bureau reported that the US economy added 73,000 jobs in July which is well below estimates. The May and June numbers turned out to be lower than was previously reported by more than 200,000 jobs. The Bureau routinely revises economic data due to the scale of the US economy and to lags in data collection.

By firing experts and nonpartisan government employees for not providing the facts that the president WOULD LIKE TO SEE, the president’s message is do not tell the truth when the facts paint an unfavorable picture or you risk losing your job. The threats that the president has issued to Jerome Powell, Chairman of the Federal Reserve, for not lowering interest rates is another example of the president’s attempts to manipulate data to BOOST HIS IMAGE, rather than use DATA TO MAKE SOUND DECISIONS FOR THE ECONOMY. This “OFF WITH THEIR HEADS” approach will only result in INACCURATE REPORTING in the future to the president AND TO the American people.

The people, however, who will not find work, or who will not afford prices in the marketplace, or who will lose their health insurance or healthcare will have to decide if they want to believe the ROSY PICTURE the president paints of outcomes of his administration, or the REALITY that they face in their day-to-day lives.

Renaming The Kennedy Center

Representative Fong:

NBC News reported that the House has proposed to rename the Kennedy Center after President Donald Trump and its opera house after Melania Trump in violation of law. The measure is supported by GOP Rep Mike Simpson of Idaho and is part of legislation to fund the Interior Department, but it would need to pass through the full House and the Senate to become law. GOP Rep Bob Onder of MO introduced “Make Entertainment Great Again” proposing to rename the entire center after the Trumps. The laws creating the center prohibited changing the names of the facilities which are considered a living memorial to assassinated President John F. Kennedy.

During his first administration, Trump did not attend any events at the Kennedy Center. Now, he has named himself the Kennedy Center chairman and fired the bipartisan Board of Trustees, including the center’s biggest individual donor who has contributed over $100 million. Trump’s vision for the Kennedy Center is for a “golden” age that would ensure no “anti-American propaganda.” He was most opposed to a single drag show that was among the 2,200 events that are typically held at the center annually.

He has installed portraits of himself and Mrs. Trump and the Vice President and his wife in the center’s Hall of Nations where only a bust of President Kennedy used to be displayed. The opera house is the venue for the Kennedy Center Honors and major fundraiser which is traditionally attended by the president and other political figures.

During his last administration, the president refused to attend the ceremony because some entertainers would not attend to protest Trump’s policies and his controversial comments about the white nationalist march in Charlottesville, VA. In June when the Trumps attended a performance in the opera house, some members of the audience booed their arrival. Jack Schlossberg, President Kennedy’s grandson, and Maria Shriver, his niece, have strongly criticized the move to change the name of the Kennedy Center. Their grandfather was very supportive of a wide variety of entertainers with broad cultural reach and protected FREEDOM OF ARTISTIC EXPRESSION.

I am opposed to the proposal to change the name of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and urge you to vote against it.

Diverted Funds Being Used for Qatar Jet Renovation

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that $934 million which were slated to update our country’s ground-based nuclear missile sites have been diverted to an unnamed classified project. Air Force officials divulged privately that these funds are being used to renovate the jet that Qatar recently “gifted” to Donald Trump (emolument clause?) to use as Air Force One during his tenure. Following Trump’s presidency, the jet will not continue to be used for presidential transportation, but will supposedly become part of the “Trump Presidential Library.”

Forbes reported that the Pentagon has classified the cost of the renovation, but funds from the nuclear missile program, known as the Sentinel project, were reassigned to an unnamed project. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told Congress that the estimated cost to retrofit the jet would be $400 million, but engineers and experts in the Air Force believe the estimate is low. Pete Hegseth signed a memorandum of understanding that the jet is considered an “unconditional donation” to the Pentagon and not to be “interpreted or construed as, an offer, promise, or acceptance of any form of bribery, undue influence, or corrupt practice.” Although Trump claims the jet is a gift, the Trump administration actually initiated discussion about the vehicle because Boeing was behind schedule in preparing two new jets to serve as Air Force One. The Qatar royal family had put the jet up for sale because they were reducing their private fleet.

In addition to the renovation, the jet will have to be thoroughly inspected to assure that no spy devices have been implanted. The plane is currently in San Antonio, Texas at a facility known for secret technology projects. The cost to update the aging intercontinental ballistic missile system is $140 billion, so diversion of funds from this venture does not seem prudent.

The Associated Press reported that in April, the TRUMP ORGANIZATION announced that it will build A LUXURY GOLD RESORT in Qatar developed by a company OWNED BY THE QATARI GOVERNMENT. Representative Fong, need I say more?

RFK, Jr. Recommends Changes to Vaccination Programs

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. has resulted in changes to vaccine recommendations and to access to vaccines. Although he promised during his confirmation hearings that he would not limit access to vaccines, RFK, Jr. is indeed limiting access for certain groups of Americans. Those 65 or older or the immunocompromised are still likely to receive vaccines because they are at high risk of severe illness and death. However, healthy adults and children may see substantial changes to the recommendations for various vaccines, which will ultimately change the coverage that insurance will provide. The CDC recommendation for COVID vaccines for children is that parents now seek the advice of their children’s physicians. The CDC no longer issues guidance for COVID vaccines for pregnant women, which has resulted in some pharmacists declining, or not being permitted to administer the inoculations. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists continues to recommend that children and pregnant women be vaccinated for COVID.

Kennedy recently released all the members of the federal panel that makes vaccine recommendations and replaced them with a new panel, many of which are known for their anti-vaccine perspectives. Therefore, it is unlikely that these vaccines will be recommended for the general public. Influenza vaccines may also be difficult to find because the new federal panel voted to remove thimerosal from flu vaccines which is used in 94% of the vaccines as a preservative. The decision could make the shots more costly and harder to find. ABC News reported that the new panel announced that they are STUDYING the childhood immunization schedule and they have already cast doubt on whether newborns need the hepatitis B vaccine.

Members who previously served on the panel before they were released by Kennedy published in the New England Journal of Medicine that the rigorous process for recommending vaccines is eroding. One of the former members, Dr. Noel Brewer, warned, “We no longer have a single authority that’s trustworthy to tell us who should get vaccinated at what age.” To counter this blow to public health, professional medical organizations are coming together to make vaccine recommendations and establish vaccine schedules. The American Academy of Pediatrics will recommend its own immunization schedule which it has published for decades. The American Academy of Family Physicians and the American College of Physicians will publish recommendations for adults, and the Infectious Diseases Society of America will establish a schedule for immunocompromised people.

Construction of Ballroom Addition to the White House

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes and other news outlets reported that the Trump administration is planning to construct a 90,000 square foot addition to the East Wing of the White House which will supposedly be paid by President Trump and various donors in the sum of $200 million. The addition will serve as a ballroom and seat 650 guests, three times the current capacity of the East Room, and is slated to be completed before the end of Trump’s term. Trump views the addition as his legacy. Past presidents have expanded space in the White House, such as the addition of the West Wing by President Truman, and each presidential family has decorated the rooms to their taste during their residency, while respecting the history and stature of “The People’s House.”

Questions have arisen about the competitive bidding and contracting process for the ballroom construction project and also about the funding. Ethics experts are concerned about donors who might expect to gain favor with the president through their contributions. Essentially, the project will be one more transactional opportunity arranged between Trump and wealthy individuals seeking influence. During the Obama administration, Trump offered to build a ballroom addition to the White House, but the administration declined. Trump saw a need for a ballroom addition because at past White House functions, “overflow” guests were seated in temporary tents on the White House grounds.

During the construction period of the planned ballroom, staff who work in the East Wing, such as the White House military office, the visitor’s offices, and the office of the First Lady will have to be relocated. We have seen the gleaming gold decor that Trump has selected for the Oval Office, reminiscent of the opulence of the reign of Louis XIV, the Sun King. The new ballroom will be decorated in the same style. As we navigate a future world of the “haves and have nots,” will the image that we portray to welcome fellow Americans and foreign dignitaries across the socio-economic spectrum to our presidential residence be one that is comfortable and inviting, stately and dignified? Or, as we rescind millions of dollars in social services and foreign aid, will we be shouting our economic disparities with brazen abandon? With Trump’s method of governing by executive order and not even including Congress in decisions that impact all Americans, I doubt that the American people will be consulted about design changes to “The People’s House.”

Withdrawing from UNESCO

Representative Fong:

The Guardian reported that the Trump administration is pulling the United States out of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), stating that the social and cultural causes that the organization advances are not aligned with the administration’s “America First” foreign policy. The US withdrawal from UNESCO will take place in December 2026. UNESCO, a global organization based in Paris, was founded after WWII, with the US as a founding member in 1945, to promote peace through international cooperation in education, science, and culture. The United States has also pulled out of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Humans Rights Council. The United States only provides about 8% of the UNESCO’s budget. However, the financial impact that US withdrawal from WHO has had is far greater in that the US is WHO’s largest backer.

UNESCO is known for establishing world heritage sites, including in conflict zones such as Ukraine, and supports cultural and educational programs that encourage intercultural dialogue. UNESCO operates educational programs that promote health, literacy, clean water, equality for women, ocean protection, and ethics of artificial intelligence. Trump has cited that among his decisions for withdrawal are political bias on matters between Israel and Palestine, even though UNESCO provides Holocaust education in its fight against antisemitism. In 2011, UNESCO voted to admit Palestine which is not recognized by Israel and the United States, resulting in Obama cutting funding for the program.

In 2017, Trump withdrew entirely but remained a “nonmember observer.” In 2023, the Biden administration rejoined, stating that in leaving the organization, Chinese influence had filled the vacuum that the US departure had created. The NYTimes reported that Representative Gregory Meeks of NY, the leading Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, believes that withdrawal from UNESCO undermines US global leadership.

I am opposed to the isolationist policies that the Trump administration has taken and would like to see the United States continue in its participation in world educational, scientific, and cultural issues. Unfortunately, the US has lost its respect with the conduct of the current administration, and I fear it will take many years for us to build enough trust to be accepted again as a global leader.

Week of July 13th

Medicaid Personal Data Shared with ICE

Representative Fong:

A very SERIOUS issue was reported today by AP and Newsweek of the access that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been granted by the Trump administration to PERSONAL INFORMATION of 79 million Medicaid users. The purpose of the sharing of information is to increase the number of deportations conducted by ICE. The agreement between Center for Medicare Services and ICE gives ICE officials the ability to locate aliens across the country, with home addresses, social security numbers of enrollees, birth dates, and racial and ethnicity information.

ICE will have access to this information five days a week from 9:00am to 5:00pm until September 9, even though agents will supposedly be unable to download the data. Nevertheless, this is a VIOLATION of our privacy laws and will impact those who seek emergency medical care for their families, including their children. The IRS has also been sharing information with ICE under the Trump administration. Medicaid is provided under federal and state partnership, so eligibility for enrollment VARIES from state to state. Some states have expanded the program under the Affordable Care Act.

Under federal law, ONLY EMERGENCY SERVICES are available for noncitizens who do not have satisfactory immigration status, but who would otherwise be Medicaid eligible. Emergency Medicaid is available under a temporary program in lifesaving ERs for ALL PATIENTS, including those who do not have permanent legal status. This violation of privacy is unacceptable and possibly unlawful. All Americans should be concerned whenever the privacy of any individual is violated.

The Department of Homeland Security is hoping to propose an initiative in which undocumented aliens will not receive Medicaid under the conditions of special eligibility described above. As cuts resulting from the passing of the devastating budget bill by our legislators come into effect, and medical services become more and more difficult to obtain for many of us, will be become as cruel and heartless as the ICE agents who target undocumented law-abiding immigrants for deportation by denying emergency services in serious life and death circumstances? Will we stand by and allow personal information for SOME to be unlawfully shared? This is certainly a slippery slope on which personal information for ALL OF US could be shared at the discretion of the Trump administration. I am opposed and ask that you stand against this tactic proposed by the Department of Homeland Security.

Bondi Trip to Alcatraz

Representative Fong:

After cutting funds for educating our youth while simultaneously increasing the ICE budget to extraordinary levels (as masked agents apprehend non-criminal immigrants inhumanely in violation of the Constitution), your consideration of Trump’s proposal to re-open Alcatraz is remarkable. This notorious and now decrepit prison that was closed because of the extreme INEFFICIENCY and HIGH COST of operating it, is YET ANOTHER EXAMPLE of the president and his administration inflicting WASTE, FRAUD, AND ABUSE on the American people.

Perhaps Attorney General Bondi and Secretary of the Interior Burgum’s trip to the prison today is just another distraction for Trump’s voters so that they will look away from Bondi’s decision not to release the Epstein investigation files. Clearly, the president’s threat to sue the conservative Wall Street Journal for reporting today on his past communications with Epstein is indicative that the lurid issue will continue to be explored and will not go away anytime soon. From past incidents and public statements that Donald Trump has made, we are WELL AWARE of his misogyny and the court rulings regarding his inappropriate and illegal behaviors regarding women. Normally, even a fraction of those behaviors would have precluded his election to leadership. However, Trump supporters chose to vote for Trump despite these grave failings, so why should they be surprised about his long association with a depraved child sex trafficker?

Each day that we are subjected to these tawdry dramas, as well as to today’s ridiculous reconsideration to restore Alcatraz, we continue to be perplexed and dismayed by the irrational priorities of this democracy-destroying administration.

Brouhaha Over the Epstein Files

Representative Fong:

I am amazed at the uproar of Republican voters over the decision by Attorney General Bondi not to release any further information about the Jeffrey Epstein child trafficking investigation. Yes, the case is truly vile, and it stirred much speculation about who among the rich and famous would be incriminated by association. Because Republicans theorized that prominent Democrats would certainly be involved in such lurid activity, they were particularly interested in a supposed “client list” (referred to by Trump former attorney Alan Dershowitz last March and again last week) and the truth behind the suicide of the child predator. Most supporters overlook Trump’s long friendship and association with Epstein, and that not only was he arrested and indicted during Trump’s administration, but that he also died in prison when Trump was president.

Many members of Trump’s cabinet talked up the case, giving the impression that more information was forthcoming. Pam Bondi indicated files for the case were on her desk, FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Director Bongino expressed strong opinions about the case, and many Trump supporters such as Charlie Kirk and Steve Bannon equated the “transparency” of the Trump administration with what they believed would be eventual revelations about the case. Instead, Bondi announced that foul play was ruled out in Epstein’s death, no client list existed, and no further information about the case would be released. The backlash against Bondi has been swift and furious, causing Trump to speak in her defense. FBI Assistant Deputy Director Bongino had even threatened to quit his job over the situation.

While most of us on the other side of the aisle express our concerns about the failure of the justice department (as well as the congress) to remain independent of the executive branch which undermines the essence of our government integrity, the forceful and inhumane apprehension and detention of immigrants, the destruction of our healthcare system, and the inequality of the tax code that threatens our economic stability and viability as a nation, Trump’s base are burning their MAGA hats over the unanswered conspiracy theories of the Epstein case!

To divert attention of the base away from the Epstein conspiracy theory, the DOJ has indicated they will conduct further investigation of the THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATED Russia election interference case FROM 2016 involving former CIA Director John Brennon and former FBI Director James Comey, another case that was fraught with conspiracy theories.

Perhaps in returning the base’s attention to a different “shiny object” the administration will be able to divert the backlash triggered by the Epstein case. These are the citizens who helped to elect Donald J Trump to the presidency and now he seems to be dismissing and even demeaning them. For anyone who has been paying attention, loyalty to this man is not a two-way street.

Latest Tariff Threats

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press indicated that Trump’s latest tariffs imposed last Saturday on the European Union of 30% to begin August 1 further weaken the region’s economy. Countermeasures are being prepared, but as one would expect, members of the European Commission are hoping for “a negotiated solution.” Blaming the uncertainty from the US changes to trade policy and the unpredictable levying of tariffs from day to day, European economists downgraded their economic forecast for 2025 from 1.3 percent which was predicted in 2024 to 0.9 percent.

In Brazil, former right-wing President Jair Bolsonaro is being prosecuted by the current Brazilian administration, reminding Trump of the indictments brought against him. So, he has decided to use tariffs against Brazil to express his displeasure with the treatment of Bolsonaro, opening legal questions about weaponizing tariffs and the president’s power over trade.

Trump continued this practice when he threatened tariffs for countries doing business with Russia as part of sanctions in his recent decision finally to do SOMETHING to counter the onslaught of attacks on Ukraine. The president also placed 30% tariffs on goods from Mexico, also to begin August 1. The president was in negotiations with Canada over tariffs; however, Trump threatened a 35% tariff on imports from Canada that has upset the negotiations.

Thus far, rise in prices has not been noticeable because companies have been willing to absorb costs with the belief that the currently imposed tariffs are temporary. Also, in anticipation of the tariffs, many companies have stockpiled goods for months, thus delaying tariff payments. However, the goods that may be most vulnerable in the near future are gas, appliances, telephones, computers, televisions, clothing, shoes, accessories, and coffee. Americans are forced to buckle-up for unpredictable price increases. One would never expect that OUR OWN PRESIDENT would inflict this kind of grief on our citizens simply for his own need to feel powerful.

Hate Speech

Representative Fong:

MSNBC reported that in his recent speech in Iowa, Trump misled the American people by stating that the reconciliation bill passed 218 to 2, when in fact it had passed 218 to 214. What Trump’s accounting expressed was the REPUBLICAN vote that voted in favor of the bill. He completely ignored the votes of the Democratic party members. He asserted that “They wouldn’t vote only because they hate Trump, but I hate them, too, you know? I really do. I hate them. I cannot stand them, because I really believe they hate our country.”

Representative Fong, I love my country and that is why I write to you every day. In the past Trump has referred to Democratic voters as “the enemy within.” Representative Fong, I am not an enemy of the United States, I am a staunch supporter of it, a supporter whose heart breaks when I see the extraordinary damage that is being inflicted on every aspect of our society under the current administration. During his 2016 presidential campaign, Trump gave a completely different outlook on how a bipartisan government should work at policymaking: “You’re supposed to cajole, get people in a room, you have Republicans, Democrats, you’re supposed to get together and pass a law.” Now, with Trump’s beeline to autocracy, delegitimizing the opposing party, or even just pretending that they don’t exist, is his new message. By expressing hatred towards the opposition whom he paints as “unpatriotic,” Trump gives license to his followers to hate too, deepening the divide that he has been widening since he came upon the political scene.

Week of July 6th

Trump’s “Negotiations” with Putin and Zelinskyy

Representative Fong:

The Guardian and Politico reported that munitions to Ukraine including Patriot air defense missiles have been stopped. Trump discussed the halting of munitions, some of which are already in Poland, with Zelinskyy in a telephone conversation on Friday. Trump indicated the decision was made after reviewing the US military stockpiles and it was determined that munitions for US troops are running low. This announcement was uncharacteristic of Trump, who has stated on numerous occasions that he does not reveal to US enemies where our strengths or weaknesses lie, so the veracity of this excuse provided to Zelinskyy is questionable.

Germany had proposed buying Patriot missiles from the US for Ukraine, but now it appears they will not be immediately available. This weaponry is of great importance to Ukraine, especially considering that Russia launched more than 550 drones and ballistic missiles at major Ukrainian cities JUST AFTER Putin’s talk with Trump on Thursday.

Trump indicated that he was “very disappointed” by his conversation with Putin who he said was unwilling to make concessions. Russia lists his reasons for the war with Ukraine as NATO’s expansion (which only occurred AFTER Russia invaded Ukraine) and Ukraine’s hope to engage in western economic and security agreements. Zelinskyy posted on social media that his interaction with Trump was “very important and fruitful.” They discussed air defense, joint defense production, and “mutual procurement and investment.” The White House has not provided a transcript of the call. Trump boasted during his campaign that he could end the war between Russia and Ukraine “on day one” of his administration. Unfortunately for Ukraine, Trump seems to have greatly underestimated his diplomatic skills and ability to strike a deal, or he is simply uninterested in bringing the conflict to an end.

Trump-Musk Feud

Representative Fong:

Elon Musk has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the reconciliation bill that was passed and signed by Trump on July 4, 2025. He has threatened to support candidates to run against Republicans in the mid-term elections who voted in favor of the bill and to start a new political party, the “America Party.” CBS News reported that, after conducting a poll of his followers on Twitter/X, Musk made the announcement on July 4 that he will indeed create the American Party.

He is incensed over the $4+ TRILLION increase to the national debt that the bill creates. The formation of a new party would not be an easy task, involving complicated state laws, litigation, and ballot-access rules. Additionally, each state-level political party would have to procure an advisory opinion from the Federal Election Commission. Building an entire new party would likely take years. Musk recently announced at the Qatar Economic Forum that he was NOT planning to spend money on politics as he moved forward from the Trump campaign, so his “America Party” plans are in conflict with that statement

Trump believes Musk is “upset” because the bill cut energy incentives that promoted the purchase of electric vehicles, such as Musk’s renowned TESLA. Trump has threatened to cut government contracts for Musk’s companies and even to deport him. With our reliance on Musk’s technology contracts and his knowledge of sensitive government information, it is unlikely that Trump would carry through on either of those threats. Musk has received at minimum $38 billion in government contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits over the years according to a Washington Post analysis.

The Hill reported Trump’s latest threat, which was EXTRAORDINARILY TELLING in my opinion, about the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to which Musk had been appointed head at the start of Trump’s administration. “We might have to put DOGE on Elon…DOGE is the MONSTER that might have to go back and EAT Elon. Wouldn’t that be terrible?” Trump said. In essence, Trump was admitting in the heat of the dispute that DOGE is a “monster,” a political weapon that he created to annihilate our government by cutting crucial departments, services, employees, and watchdogs under the guise of reining in spending. These conflicts amplify the chaos of the Trump administration and do not serve our country in any way. We grow weary of the theater and yearn for a political climate where work for the American people is central, rather than the waste, fraud, and abuse that these two characters INFLICT upon us.

January 6, 2021 Rioter Hired at the Department of Justice

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported last week that a former FBI agent who encouraged attackers to KILL POLICE OFFICERS at the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 has been named as an advisor to the Justice Department task force that Trump established to seek retribution against his political enemies. Jared L. Wise is working for controversial Director Ed Martin of the ironically named “Weaponization Working Group.” Mr. Wise’s job is to exact revenge against those who tried to hold the rioters accountable for the attack on the Capitol. During the attack, Mr. Wise accused the Capitol police of being like the Gestapo, Nazi Germany’s feared secret police. He called to the other rioters to kill the police.

On Trump’s first day in office, Mr. Wise was granted clemency just at the time that he was in a criminal trial in Federal District Court for his involvement in the riot. Having served as an FBI agent in Washington and New York, Mr. Wise briefly worked in Israel and Libya. He left the FBI when his supervisors in New York became UNHAPPY WITH HIS WORK. He later worked for a conservative group, Project Veritas, under a former British spy who had been recruited to train operatives to infiltrate targets such as trade unions and Democratic campaigns. Mr. Wise was tasked with infiltrating teacher unions in Ohio. Wisconsin, Michigan, and Kentucky prior to his current position.

Rather than eliminate abuses of the criminal justice process, he will be assigned to investigate and take legal action against people who had STOPPED CRIMINAL ACTIVITY that benefitted the president. The hiring of Jared L Wise to work in the DOJ TURNS THE RULE OF LAW ON ITS HEAD!

States Prepare for Financial Burdens

Representative Fong:

The NYTimes reported that with the passing of Trump’s plan into law, states are already preparing for the financial impact to health care and food assistance for their residents. Trump’s newly enacted law includes nearly $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid by 2034 which impacts health care for 78 million adults and children. With the slowing economy and cuts made by DOGE at the federal level, states will additionally have to oversee complex work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP which will require building software systems to track eligibility, reconfigure state health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, and determine how much they will be able to assist their citizens once they begin losing federal assistance.

Although state economies have been strong in recent years with COVID relief funds, a strong stock market, and economic growth, funds for education may be impacted as a consequence of the economic stresses resulting from your vote, and increased state taxes is another possibility. State budgets will now have to consider impact on their rural hospitals. One of the financially stressed hospitals that is affected by your new law is in my community. The local newspaper “The Daily Independent” touted your support of the new law in its July 4 issue and printed a laundry list of benefits to convince people in our district of the law’s merits.

According to our hospital CEO, you were instrumental in changing the categorization of our hospital from a “rural” one to a “remote” one, making it SEMANTICALLY ELIGIBLE for some of the $50 billion made available to RESCUE hospitals across the entire nation who are NOW at risk of closing because of the drastic cuts to Medicaid. Essentially, you are given credit for saving our hospital, at least in the near term, when YOUR VOTE TO PASS THE BILL into law was what THREATENED ITS EXISTENCE in the first place.

Who decides which hospitals across the state will be able to avoid closure or reduction in services by having access to these limited funds? What happens to these facilities when the nationally shared funds are used up and Medicaid cuts continue to increase as years pass, which is how the cuts are designed? Not surprisingly, many of them will not be felt UNTIL AFTER THE MID-TERM ELECTIONS.

Our hospital CEO states that his team “will continue to work with advocates and policymakers at both the state and federal level to secure funding needed to ensure access to healthcare today – and in the years ahead.” Although you are successful now in avoiding backlash from your vote, at least in our local newspaper, I do not believe you will be able to mitigate ALL THE DAMAGE that this law will eventually incur.

Rights of Venezuelans Deported to El Salvador Further Undermined

Representative Fong:

The New York Times reported that the Trump administration repeatedly denied that it had legal authority over the Venezuelan immigrants that it deported to El Salvador under the wartime statute, the “Alien Enemies Act” (even though we are not engaged in war!) and was UNABLE to bring them back to the United States for due process. A document has surfaced from the El Salvador government that was issued to the United Nations stating El Salvador had NO LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY for the prisoners. The document was sent in response to a UN inquiry regarding the deportations. The government of El Salvador also admitted that it accepted the men into its prison ONLY in cooperative agreement with the United States in “the scope of the justice system and law enforcement” OF THE UNITED STATES. The document clearly states, “the jurisdiction and legal responsibility for these persons lie exclusively with the competent foreign authorities…” (that is, the United States).

The lawyers representing the Trump administration knew about this document for months, but failed to inform the judge or the Venezuelan prisoners who have been LANGUISHING IN PRISON. Lawyers for the Venezuelan prisoners from the ACLU and Democracy Forward indicated “the administration has not been honest with the court or with the American people.” When President Bukele of El Salvador visited the White House, Trump asserted in front of the press that El Salvador was the only party to be able to return the men to the United States, when this was far from true. The judge has indicated that the Trump administration had stripped the men of their rights, even previously ordering that the administration work toward providing due process to the Venezuelans while they remained imprisoned.

Now that this communication between the El Salvador government and the UN has become available, the SWORN AFFADAVIT filed by the Trump administration CONTRADICTS the actual facts of the case. Certainly, at minimum, the attorneys who withheld this vital information from the court should be held accountable.

Raid on MacArthur Park, Los Angeles

Representative Fong:

According to Defense One, NINE agencies (Customs and Border Protection; Immigration and Customs Enforcement; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Protective Service,; Homeland Security Investigations; ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations; the US Marshals Service; the Internal Revenue Service; the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; and the LA Police Department) and the National Guard descended on MacArthur Park in Los Angeles on July 7.

NYTimes reported, “They came with horses and armored vehicles, carrying rifles and in tactical gear..But there were few of their supposed targets to be found…immigrants without documentation.” The LA Times reported that the debacle was a “show of force akin to a Hollywood movie.” This huge show of force stayed in the public park for approximately one hour. The operation is made possible by the HUGE INFLUX OF FUNDING from the recent bill that Congress voted to have enacted into law to increase immigration and detention across the country. AP reported, “Two defense officials told reporters that what happened at MacArthur Park on Monday was not a military operation but acknowledged that the size and scope of the Guard’s participation could make it look like one to the public.”

National Guard sources said the operation had the codename “Operation Excalibur” and was justified with the objective of shutting down “the distribution of fake IDs” at MacArthur Park which is considered “the largest open-air market of fake identification to enable illegal immigration and human trafficking in the Southwest United States.” The intent of the operation, which was designated as “high threat level” due to anticipation of the presence of foreign terrorist organizations and members of MS-13, was to show the capacity of force, even though the National Guard were instructed not to conduct law enforcement. US Border Patrol Sector Chief Greg Bovino said, “Better get used to us now, cause this is going to be normal very soon.”

LA Mayor Karen Bass said that the purpose of this operation was “to spread fear.” She continued, “It’s to say to immigrants that are in our city of immigrants that they need to stay home, they shouldn’t go to work, they shouldn’t go to school, because we’re coming after you.” As we watch ICE grow into an UNACCOUNTABLE masked force that causes a children’s summer camp to be interrupted, people playing cards or soccer to evacuate, and food vendors to shutter their stands, we ask ourselves if this is the “land of the free” or a police state.

A Free Press

Representative Fong:

Paramount Global, the parent company of CBS News, is paying $16 million to settle a lawsuit brought by Trump over edits to the interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris on “60 Minutes” last year. The money will go to Trump’s future presidential library and his legal costs. Trump argued that the interview was manipulated to make the former VP seem “smarter,” which could have impacted the outcome of the election. In reality, interviews are often edited to fit airing limitations and as part of the settlement, “60 Minutes” offered NO APOLOGY. Because Paramount was in the process of selling the company to David Elison’s Skydance Media, the suit was interfering with the progress of the sale, so Paramount decided to settle in court rather than fight the suit, even though the first amendment rights of the news media were set back.

Walt Disney Company which owns ABC News also settled a suit with Trump, but in that case ABC had inaccurately described a jury verdict in a civil case against Trump years earlier.

In any case, any suppressing or coopting of the media is a dangerous path for democracy which depends on a free press. As example, according to the Associated Press, Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban has worked to build a “propaganda factory” to promote his hostile views towards immigrants, members of the LGBTQ community, the European Union, and Hungarian American/Jewish financier George Soros by undermining the Hungarian press. Orban weaponized control of a majority of news outlets to influence the Hungarian people. Opposition candidates are given limited time to express their views on public television. According to the press watchdog “Reporters Without Borders,” Orban has had government “oligarchs” buy news outlets to build a media empire. He now has control of 80% of Hungary’s media. He shut down the oldest daily newspaper and the staff of the largest online news agency resigned after its lead editor was fired under political pressure. Owners of 500 pro-government outlets donated their companies to a foundation led by loyalists of Orban, creating a massive right-wing media group. The propaganda is pervasive and follows the Russian model which includes control of advertising.

The Guardian reported that when Tucker Carlson worked for Fox News (the network that consistently supported Trump’s lie about the outcome of the 2020 election), he was enamored with Orban’s leadership and even hosted a week-long show from Budapest. Trump takes every opportunity to malign news agencies that report facts about his administration that he does not like. He persistently criticizes CNN, NBC, and MSNBC, making sure to refer to their reporting as “fake news” when he is in front of the cameras. He has limited reporters from certain outlets such as the Associated Press from covering news conferences in the White House.

Democracy cannot survive without a free press and these attempts to coerce, coopt, suppress, or subvert media is a serious threat to our freedom. Thomas Jefferson wisely warned, “When the speech condemns a free press, you are hearing the words of a tyrant.”

Week of June 29th

Passing of the Reconciliation Bill and Constitutional Rights

Representative Fong:

Now that Republicans have voted in favor of the reconciliation bill, it is apparent that they have ceased to think for themselves, to represent the people who elected them, and to support policies that they know are detrimental to the nation. They are members of the party of Trump.

Politico reported that Senator Thom Tillis of NC has decided that he can no longer be a member of the Trump Party, formerly known as the Republican Party. He has chosen rational thought and his values and oath to the Constitution over submission to the will of Trump. Having tried to assert his views and stand for the best interests of his constituents, Senator Tillis had his seat in the Senate threatened by the president, making Senator Tillis’s choice abundantly clear. He has decided not to run. I imagine that the decision of giving up the job he has enjoyed since 2014 was difficult, but he probably also feels tremendous relief from the burden that being a Trump sycophant places on an individual. On the Senate floor, Senator Tillis criticized the GOP’s plans for drastic cuts to Medicaid. He warned that if the massive domestic policy bill passes, the GOP will be making a “mistake on health care and betray a promise.” He went on to say that people who are “eligible and qualified for Medicaid” will be hurt. In his state alone, Senator Tillis indicated passing the bill would knock 663,000 residents of North Carolina off their health care plans. He urged his colleagues not to be pressured by Trump’s July 4 deadline and to rewrite the bill. How sad for our nation that the rest of the Republican legislators could not do what would have been best for the majority of Americans, even though MANY OF THEM EXPRESSED THEIR LEGITIMATE OBJECTIONS TO THE BILL!

Oddly, YESTERDAY, the SAME DAY that the House voted to pass the bill and send it on for Trump’s signature, I received a letter from you, not about the bill, but one justifying the DETENTION of Mr. Khalil by ICE for expressing his views against the government of Israel in its treatment of Palestinians. I wrote my concerns about this issue to you last MARCH, so your choice to respond to it YESTERDAY, the same day that you appropriated a huge increase in funding, $45+ billion, for ICE was notable. I assume this is your way of letting me know that I can expect many, many more residents of our country to be apprehended by ICE for exercising their freedom of speech, or in some cases based on an agent’s assessment, for simply looking “different.”

You say you are an advocate of “the fundamental rights provided to all American citizens in the Constitution.” You then say that I should feel assured that “our democracy is built on a foundation of checks and balances that allows the Executive Branch to address legitimate concerns while ensuring that enforcement remains consistent with the Constitution and the rule of law.” Your statement is not consistent with what Republicans have demonstrated REPEATEDLY throughout Trump’s administrations —there is NO LONGER a system of checks and balances on the Executive Branch, at least as long as Republicans hold the majority.

Mr. Khalil was detained in violation of his First Amendment rights and without due process in violation of his Fifth Amendment rights. With Republicans’ complete submission to Trump’s agenda, much of which many same Republicans admitted is bad for the nation, how can you expect me to trust that you will stand for my fundamental rights?

Cruel Treatment of Undocumented Immigrants

Representative Fong:

The Washington Post reported that masked US Border Patrol officers beat and detained Mr. Narciso Barranco, a landscaper, when he was taken by surprise at an IHOP restaurant while he was doing his job in Santa Ana, California. Mr. Barranco came to the United States from Mexico in the 1990s, but does not have legal status. He is 48 years old and has lived and worked here for 30 years. During his arrest, he was pepper-sprayed, and his shoulder was dislocated. He is in custody with the Department of Homeland Security. His son, Alejandro Barranco, said his father did not attack those who apprehended him, despite their reports to the contrary, and he has no criminal record. He is hardworking and raised three sons, all of whom were born in the United States and have served, or continue to serve in the US Marine Corps.

In a video of the incident, Mr. Barranco is seen running away from the officers, holding the weed trimmer in the air that he was using for his landscaping work. He is clearly trying to get away from the agents. Once his son was able to locate him and speak with him in detention, Mr. Barranco cried about his situation and indicated he was still in pain. Nevertheless, he expressed his concern that his job at IHOP had not been completed and wanted his son to ensure that the job was done satisfactorily.

Mr. Barranco’s situation is typical of recent apprehensions of undocumented immigrants. They are not criminals and gang members as the government tries to portray to justify the daily sweeps of communities to find, detain, and sometimes deport undocumented immigrants. Instead, they are workers who have created a life here, raised their families, and are integral members of our society.

We must find a more just method for dealing with undocumented immigrants and REFORM OUR IMMIGRATION POLICY so that our government does not implement the cruel tactics currently used (through enacting unjustifiably “The Alien Enemies Act of 1798”) to deter immigration through fear and intimidation.

Diversity and Inclusion in Education

Representative Fong:

The National Education Association (NEA) and “The Idaho Statesman” reported that Idaho teacher Sarah Inama was instructed by her school administration to remove a poster from her middle school classroom that had the message, “Everyone is welcome here.” The poster showed a variety of children’s raised hands depicting a variety of skin tones ranging from dark brown to pale pink, each with a red heart on the palm.

Ms. Inama initially complied with the school’s request, but after thinking about the ramifications, decided to put the poster back on the wall. She wondered who among her students would NOT be welcome in her PUBLIC EDUCATION classroom. Ms. Inama understands that creating a welcoming, safe environment for students is fundamental to learning. The district qualified that the poster’s message without the image of the children’s hands in different skin tones would have been allowable, but with the image the poster violated the school district’s policy to be “content neutral.” CONTENT NEUTRAL! As a consequence of this requirement, Ms. Iname, who ironically taught World Civilization, resigned from her position. The questions she asked were: what kind of message does removal of the poster send to her students? and aren’t public school teachers supposed to welcome everyone?

With the current administration’s anti-diversity and anti-inclusion laws, many educators have to make decisions that are contrary to the basic principles of educational practice. No one had complained about the poster prior to the administration’s request to have it removed. The principal said, “We’re just trying to protect you if something were to happen.” According to Inama, it appeared that the school was trying to “pre-emptively appease somebody with exclusionary beliefs.” When fear of retribution permeates society, logical and sound decision-making can no longer be achieved. As a retired educator, I applaud Sarah Inama for her courage to speak truth to power. She is now employed in a different school district where the administration and her colleagues share her inclusionary values and do not allow fear to enter decisions that result in what is best for ALL students.

Cuts to Planned Parenthood and Women’s Reproductive Care

Representative Fong:

According to Politico, the Senate parliamentarian ruled that the reconciliation bill can cut Medicaid funding for Planned Parenthood, which bills Medicaid for non-abortion services and receives federal funding through other programs and grants. Republicans tried to target Planned Parenthood in 2017 when they wanted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, but fortunately that effort failed. As of 2023, the US division of Planned Parenthood received $792 million in funding from government reimbursements and grants, including Medicaid. Over 10 years, it would cost an additional $52 million. The woman’s health organization and abortion provider has been banned from receiving federal funding directly for abortions under the Hyde Amendment. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley of Oregon stated, “Republicans will stop at nothing in their crusade to take control of women’s bodies.”

If the bill passes, Planned Parenthood WOULD NOT receive Medicaid funding for OTHER FAMILY PLANNING AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES that they provide, forcing at least 200 health centers to close. Millions of women across the nation rely on Planned Parenthood clinics for reproductive care, particularly low-income women. About 90 percent of these clinics are in states where abortion is legal, but the bill would make the policy national. The extreme ideology that resulted from the Dobbs decision in 2022 which eliminated the federal constitutional right to abortion and returned the authority to regulate or ban abortion to individual states has been forced on the nation. Sadly, many women lost their reproductive freedom as well as reproductive healthcare, reducing them to second-class citizen status. If Planned Parenthood clinics are closed, even more women will have difficulty getting the care they need. These decisions are unconscionable. Women will not forget who has stripped them of their health rights when they exercise their right to vote.

Support for Public Radio and Television in the Reconciliation Bill

Representative Fong:

I am glad that House Minority Leader Jeffries (NY) has chosen to speak about the many, many negative aspects of the reconciliation bill in his marathon speech. The American people need to be aware of the deleterious effects of the bill, many of which are obscured by its sheer volume. Despite the size of the “big” bill, MANY Republicans have acknowledged the damage that it will do to our country, but at this point, it appears that not enough of them possess the courage to block its passage.

I will make one final plea as you are poised to vote. I am urging Republican senators and congressmen to protect local public television and radio stations across the country by removing rescinding $1.1 billion in APPROVED federal funding for local public media from the reconciliation bill. These media stations reach nearly every American household, regardless of income or geography, and provide emergency alerts, local journalism, research-backed educational content for children, and community resources for teachers, students, and jobseekers. These resources are particularly essential in rural and Native American communities which are at risk of losing local stations and access to local media altogether.

As a parent, retired educator, and citizen for whom keeping abreast of current news is important, I understand the impact that public media has had on my family, my students, and my ability to stay informed. Please support the people in your communities by continuing funding for this important information and education source. Or is keeping factual information from the people your goal?

Disguising the Enormous Cost of the Reconciliation Bill and Misguided Republican Priorities

Representative Fong:

According to The Washington Post, the Senate used a new method of calculating numbers for the cost of the reconciliation bill called “current policy baseline.’ They ignore the tax extensions by stating they are simply a continuation of policies already in place, so they claim the bill will cost $442 billion, one-tenth of the cost the non-partisan Congressional Budget office has calculated.

Heather Cox Richardson of Substack reports that immigration scholar Aaron Reichlin-Melnick says the bill also provides an additional $45 billion for ICE to detain migrants in addition to the current annual budget of $3.4 billion. In addition of the $750 million for transportation and removal of migrants, another $14.4 billion is allocated. For new ICE hires another $8 billion is included. Mr. Reichlin-Melnick indicated that ICE will have more money for detention than the government provides for the ENTIRE US Bureau of Prisons!

The Department of Homeland Security expressed its inhumane and cruel attitude regarding immigration policy by posting an image of a proposed detention facility in the Florida Everglades that showed alligators wearing ICE hats.

Of the $930 billion cuts to Medicaid (an increase from the House version of the bill), additional cuts are made to Medicare and the Affordable Care Act. The Congressional Budget Office indicates the bill will cause 11.8 million Americans to become uninsured (a million more than in the House version of the bill). Politico reported that Louisiana hospitals warned Republican Senator Mike Johnson that the cuts to the health system in Louisiana “would be historic in their devastation.” People will simply not be able to get the healthcare they need. Nevertheless, Senator Johnson ultimately voted for the bill. This bill simply does not accomplish goals in the best interest of the majority of Americans.

Rather than bloat the bill with funding for harsh treatment of immigrants, why not reform immigration policy? Rather than remove services for the neediest Americans, why not create a more equitable tax system? To avoid future affronts to democracy, why not propose legislation to eliminate dark money from the election process?

Standing Against A Bill That Negatively Impacts Americans

Representative Fong:

Please see my comments to Senators Padilla and Schiff:

“Dear Senators Padilla and Schiff:

I THANK YOU and all Democratic senators for voting NO on the budget reconciliation bill. In using a reconciliation bill, Republicans can be successful in passing a bill with a very small simple majority, so your unity was particularly important. Numerous news agencies such as CBS, Politico, The New York Times, NBC, etc. report that Republicans are trying to pass this ENORMOUS AND CUMBERSOME bill chock full of everything they might slip in, while voting to extend tax cuts for the wealthy PERMANENTLY and issuing cuts to Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and energy credits for sustainable energy.

The bill increases the national debt by $4.2 trillion. The cuts to Medicaid will increase as years progress, so that the loss becomes more noticeable towards the end of Trump’s term and into his successor’s. The addition of $25 billion for rural hospitals to try to offset the damage from the Medicaid cuts will unlikely be sufficient to sustain them. I find it incomprehensible that Republican senators such as Senators Hawley (MO ) and Murkowski (AK) have expressed their great concerns about the impact of this bill for their constituents, yet they STILL VOTED IN FAVOR OF IT. What does that say?

Republican Senator Thom Tillis (NC) who voted against the bill was immediately threatened by Trump, who made it clear to all other Republicans in Congress that he would support an opponent for Senator Tillis’s seat in the mid-term elections. Senator Tillis has decided not to run. Consequently, other than Senator Rand Paul (KY), all other senators capitulated thus far. This is not the way our government is supposed to work!

I was relieved to learn that the Senate parliamentarian was successful in limiting the rule that prevented states from regulating artificial intelligence, prevented the sell-off of public lands, eliminated vouchers for religious schools, ruled against the $1,000 fee for asylum seekers, and preserved the Consumer Finance Protection Board. The final outcome is yet to be seen.

Despite the daily turmoil and angst caused by the Trump administration, I find GREAT SOLACE knowing YOU ARE STILL RESPONSIBLE, COURAGEOUS politicians who stand for what is best for ALL Americans, not just a select few, and unlike your Republican colleagues, you do not succumb to the pressures of a tyrant that threatens our democracy. I am SO GRATEFUL that you are unwavering in your stand for American values, the Constitution of the United States, and the rule of law. As we hang on to our constitutional republic by a fraying thread, our 249-year commitment to this great country remains intact. Our future depends on our strength, resolve, and continued vision. MAY DEMOCRACY PREVAIL…”

Week of June 22nd

Selling of Public Lands

Representative Fong:

The Center for American Progress and Politico report that although the House, thanks to the efforts of Republican Ryan Zinke of Montana and others, rejected a public land sell-off in its version of the reconciliation bill, the Senate plans are far more expansive. The bill proposes that hundreds of millions of acres of public lands become eligible for sale, with two to three million acres to be sold off in five years. These national forests and BLM lands will exceed 250 million acres and include prime recreation, wildlife, historic, and cultural lands. No public input and minimal public notice will be required.

Although the proposal’s justification is construction of housing, the land use requirements include vague restrictions and lack of enforcement mechanisms and could ultimately result in resorts, golf communities, private mansions, and other such developments. Therefore, the sell-off will not solve the housing affordability issue that plagues the nation. The public land sell-off was supported by Senator Mike Lee of Utah, a long-time advocate of selling off national lands.

As I have said in previous writing on this subject, public lands are incredibly important for sustaining renewable resources such as water, wildlife, and timber. Additionally, what should not be underestimated in preserving public lands is the substantial outdoor recreation economy that is operated by many small business owners. We must preserve the national treasure of these undeveloped lands that belong to all Americans. I urge you and your colleagues to stand against this proposal.

Incendiary Political Rhetoric

Representative Fong:

CNN reported that Republican Senator Mike Lee of Utah posted a series of remarks on Twitter/X in which he wrote that shootings like the one on June 14 of two Minnesota legislators and their spouses, two of which died, happen ‘when Marxists don’t get their way.” He heartlessly referred to the tragic event as “Nightmare on Waltz Street,” in reference to Minnesota Democratic Governor Tim Walz. Lee was confronted and condemned by several Democratic legislators, including Senate Minority Leader Schumer and Senators Smith, Klobuchar, and Blumenthal, who criticized him for escalating the situation and spreading misinformation. Senator Lee eventually removed the posts from social media but never offered an apology. Senator Lee’s callous response when his colleagues were killed and injured and while the families of the victims were so emotionally distraught normalizes a cruel, inhumane reaction to violence. This kind of hate speech puts elected officials in continual danger.

The Hill reported that on June 20 at JD Vance’s arrival in Los Angeles to review the controversial National Guard deployment, he referred to Senator Alex Padilla, with whom he had served in the Senate, as “Jose Padilla.” The rude reference was to a man with that name who was convicted of conspiring to commit murder and fund terrorism. Vance falsely indicated that Senator Padilla had not opted to meet with him in Los Angeles because he would not have had the drama in front of the press that Senator Padilla had experienced at a recent press conference for Secretary Noem during which the senator was surprisingly and wrongly seized and handcuffed for no apparent reason. When the vice president’s staff was questioned about the reference to “Jose Padilla,” his press secretary falsely explained that the vice president “must have mixed up two people who have broken the law.” These outrageous statements are so unbecoming of elected officials, and like the inflammatory rhetoric fraught with lies from President Trump, serve to further the divisiveness and hatred that have surfaced in recent politics.

We must not become numb to the flood of hateful comments. We should raise the bar when we elect leaders and expect nothing less than respectful and dignified behavior from them. We have the power to choose the kind of society in which we want to live, one of brutality and violence, or one of grace, order, and calm.

Enrichment of President and Conflict of Interest

Representative Fong:

Reuters and The Associated Press report that Trump and his family are launching a new mobile telephone business called Trump Mobile. The venture will also offer cell service and eventually gold telephones. Of course, as in all of the Trump business offers from sneakers, bibles, vodka, steaks, and watches to memecoins, cryptocurrency, and resorts in the Middle East and Vietnam, the latest company is in violation of the emolument clause in the Constitution and is highly unethical. The emolument clause prohibits the president from receiving additional compensation or benefits from the federal government or states beyond the fixed salary of his term. The purpose of the clause is to protect the office and national interests from corruption and undue influence. Trump has been in violation of the emolument clause since his first term as president and continues to ignore the constitutional statute in this administration. Although the president’s business interests are in a trust during his presidency, income from the businesses will eventually enrich him.

Trump’s sons who operate his businesses tout that the telephones will be manufactured in the United States and the call center will also be in-country, trying to obscure the personal gain from capitalizing on the Trump name by describing the USA-made “patriotic” nature of the business. Trump Mobile will offer telemedicine, roadside assistance, and unlimited texting to 100 countries.

Currently, there are no US-based manufactured telephones because of high labor costs and overseas component sourcing. Other concerns with this business are that the regulatory agencies that oversee telephone services have been in public dispute with the president. His company will be in direct competition with telephone service providers Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile that make up 95% of the wireless market. Nearly all the smartphones used in the US are manufactured in China, South Korea, India, and Vietnam.

Trump clearly uses the presidency to expand his family’s wealth, yet efforts by private parties, state attorneys general, and members of Congress to bring suits against him for these violations have all been vacated by the courts. Trump’s income has grown substantially since his first term as president. Through the end of 2024 his wealth was assessed at more than $600 million.

Economic Impact of Draconian Immigrant Deportation Policy

Representative Fong:

National Public Radio reported that the Los Angeles Dodgers will commit $1 million for financial assistance for families of immigrants who have been impacted by “recent events in the region.” The announcement was made on June 20 while federal immigration raids were taking place in Los Angeles. The Dodgers will work with the City of Los Angeles to support families with food and mental health services. Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass said, “These last weeks have sent shockwaves of fear rippling through every neighborhood and have had a direct impact on the economy.”

On Thursday, several vehicles were parked near the stadium and five people in tactical gear requested permission to access the stadium parking lots but were denied entry to the grounds. On Twitter/X the Los Angeles Branch of Enforcement and Removal Operations, a branch of ICE released a statement saying, “False. We were never there.” The Department of Homeland Security also posted on Twitter/X that they had nothing to do with the “Dodger.” However, they admitted that their vehicles were in the stadium parking lot briefly but not related to any operations or enforcement. Meanwhile, Trump has indicated that ICE is ordered “to do all in their power to achieve the very important goal of delivering the single largest Mass Deportation Program in History.”

CalMatters reports that as the Trump administration’s immigration raids have increased in California, restaurants are closing, street vendors are going into hiding, and farmer markets have been canceled. Restaurants have already been dealing with rising costs for ingredients, labor, and rent. Regulatory requirements have also put stress on the industry. Since the president has wavered in his messaging about whether farm and hospitality industry workers should be targeted by immigration, workers are uncertain about showing up for work. Some restaurants have defiantly remained open, offering specials with 100% of proceeds being donated to local immigration rights groups.

CBS News reports that the costs of these deportations could reach $275 billion, with construction, agriculture, and service industries most impacted. Essential workers in hospitals, childcare, and housekeeping are not showing up for work for fear of being detained. The Bay Area Council Economic Institute estimates that undocumented workers in California generate nearly 5% of the state’s gross national product and pay over $23 billion in taxes.

On Truth Social, the president stated, “we must expand efforts to detain and deport Illegal Aliens in America’s largest Cities, such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York…” The locations that the federal government is targeting for its immigration sweeps, especially in view of the serious economic impact that they exert on the targeted states, seem to be evidence of the president’s pattern of retribution against fellow Americans who do not support him.

Nippon Steel Purchase of US Steel

Representative Fong:

The New York Times and CNBC reported that Trump has taken unprecedented control over US Steel, one of the nation’s oldest industries. Japan’s Nippon Steel has been trying to purchase US Steel since 2023. The Biden administration blocked the purchase, citing security reasons. US Steel is vital to the nation’s defense and infrastructure, so domestic control is crucial. Commerce Secretary Lutnick demanded a final agreement with Nippon’s $14.9 billion purchase of US Steel on June 18, 2025, in which the president holds a single share of preferred stock, known as a “golden share.” The agreement gives the president permanent veto power over about a dozen actions, such as wage and production decisions that the company might opt to take, and power over the board of directors. A golden share is taken by a government when a company has financial difficulties, or if the company plays a significant role in the economy.

In an amended corporate charter filed with the SEC, the veto power for US Steel will pass, not to future presidents as would be expected, but to the Treasury and Commerce Departments which will represent the government after Trump leaves office. Nippon has also committed to invest an additional $14 billion in US operations over the next several years. If Nippon would not uphold its agreement, enforcement of US authority may not be easy to implement. The golden share sets a precedent for the federal government and is often found in authoritarian societies.

Oversight of a foreign entity operating a long-owned American company as part of a major industry in our country is certainly necessary. However, a golden share reduces the economic value of the company for investors because it reduces shareholders control and operational decision-making. If golden shares became more commonplace, foreign investment in the United States would likely decline.

With Trump’s need for power and all things “golden,” we should keep an eye on potential future attempts to control industry, as he does currently with tariffs, executive orders targeting law firms, withholding federal funds, influencing regulatory policy, issuing conflicting messaging on immigration enforcement, etc.

Week of June 15th

Diversion of Munitions from Ukraine

Representative Fong:

The Kyiv Independent reported to ABC News on June 8 that the Trump administration diverted 20,000 anti-drone missiles intended for Ukraine to American forces in the Middle East. Ukraine counted on these missiles to counter the recent heavy Russian drone attack that launched a record 472 drones, some of which were Shahed drones provided by Iran, in a single night. The promise of the 20,000 anti-drone missiles was given by Defense Secretary Simon Austin under President Joe Biden’s administration. The Wall Street Journal also reported that the munitions had been redirected.

As Russia continues to bombard Ukraine with long-range drones, the Trump administration has stopped approval of new military packages for Ukraine. Trump resumed military shipments when Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire on March 11. However, Secretary of Defense Hegseth failed to attend the June 4 Ukraine Defense Contact Group Meeting, the first time a US defense chief was absent since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. Moscow continues to reject a ceasefire and Trump refuses to impose new sanctions on Russia.

The Trump administration is doing nothing except prolonging the conflict and showing his further alliance with Russia. We are greatly dismayed by this lack of support for our ally and ashamed of the blow it causes to our reputation. The Trump administration is determined to cause pain and death in nearly every one of its draconian policies, whether here in the United States or in the wider world.

Replacement of the CDC Vaccine Committee

Representative Fong:

The Associated Press reports that US Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. fired the entire group of 17 vaccine policy advisers for the Center for Disease Control (CDC) early last week. The board was comprised of experts who have spent their careers studying vaccines. RFK, Jr. has been a known anti-vaccine activist for many years. During his Senate confirmation hearing, Kennedy promised he would NOT change the vaccination schedule. Nevertheless, he is currently investigating childhood vaccines that prevent polio, measles, and other childhood diseases.

The dismissed advisory board had been appointed under the Biden administration, but was not perceived as partisan. The Trump administration would have been able to appoint a majority of new members in 2028, if Kennedy had not removed the entire group. Kennedy wrote an opinion in the Wall Street Journal about his decision stating, “A clean sweep is needed to re-establish public confidence in vaccine science.” No reason was offered to the board for their dismissal. Eight new vaccine policy advisors were named last Wednesday to replace the previous board. To reassure the public Kennedy asserted that his selections are “credentialed scientists.” The new members include a scientist, Dr. Robert Malone, who researched mRNA vaccine technology and who was critical of COVID-19 vaccines. He is also known for promoting unproven treatments for measles and COVID. He purports that millions of Americans were convinced to be vaccinated for COVID by being HYPNOTIZED and that the vaccines cause a form of AIDS! Another new appointee, Dr. Martin Kulidorft, is a leading critic of the lockdowns that were implemented during the pandemic. New appointee, Vicky Pebsworth, is a regional director for the National Association of Catholic Nurses and has served as a board member and volunteer director for the National Vaccine Information Center, an organization that is recognized for vaccine misinformation. Retsef Levi, a professor at MIT was also appointed, despite his call for an end of the COVID-19 vaccination program which he claimed was ineffective and dangerous.

Medical professionals and public health organizations have expressed concern that in replacing the immunization committee, decisions will be made to reassess and possibly terminate established recommendations for vaccinations in the United States. Despite the guidance of the previous board, Kennedy recently announced that he was no longer recommending the COVID-19 vaccine for children and pregnant women, even though pregnant women are in a high-risk category, and NO DATA was provided to back the decision. Clearly, under the Trump administration our national health is on a dangerous precipice.

Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board Resignation

Representative Fong:

The Hill and CBS reported that last Wednesday the entire Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board resigned in protest over political interference by the Trump administration. The decision for a unanimous resignation was prompted by “unprecedented actions” that the twelve board members believe are unlawful, contrary to national interests and integrity, and against the organization’s mission. The Fulbright Program was established by Congress nearly 80 years ago and each year awards scholars and academics the opportunity to conduct research, study, and teach in the US and abroad. The program is managed by the State Department (which stopped all new student visa interviews last month). Past recipients have gone forward to serve as heads of state and to win prestigious awards such as Nobel and Pulitzer prizes. Normally, career officials conduct annual searches for applicants who are brought before an independent board for approval.

The Trump administration has denied a great number of the selected individuals for the next academic year in the fields of biology, engineering, architecture, agriculture, crop sciences, animals sciences, biochemistry, medical sciences, music, and history. The administration is conducting its own review of 1,200 candidates which could lead to rejection of additional recipients. About 9,000 scholarships are awarded annually in the US and in more than 160 other countries. The Fulbright Program specifies in the statutes ESTABLISHED BY CONGRESS that recipients are entitled to academic freedom and free speech, and the program has always received bipartisan support. Candidates have been selected based on merit, not on political ideology. While committing to academic excellence, the Fulbright Scholarship Program supports international diplomacy and cooperation. When the board objected to the involvement of the Trump administration, government officials refused to respond. Following the resignation, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly commented, “President Trump, not the Fulbright Board, was elected by the American people to ensure all foreign policy initiatives align with our national interests.”

This political “take-over” of a valuable American institution for which we were highly regarded is ANOTHER blow to democracy. As a member of Congress, Representative Fong, will you not object?

Israel-Iran Conflict and Reliable National Intelligence

Representative Fong:

As Trump waffles on his decision to enter the conflict between Israel and Iran, his assessment of Iran’s nuclear capabilities differ from the testimony provided by his Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. The BBC reports that in March. Director Gabbard testified to Congress that Iran was NOT close to having nuclear bomb capability since it had suspended its 2003 nuclear weapons program, despite having an all-time high stockpile of enriched uranium. Trump contradicted that Iran is “very close” now to having a bomb, adding, “I don’t care what she said,” in reference to the discrepancy between Gabbard’s assessment and his own.

On April 9 during his meeting with Netanyahu, Trump announced he would seek a diplomatic solution by meeting with Iranian leadership to negotiate a nuclear agreement. Netanyahu was taken by surprise and moved forward with his own plan. As concerned citizens with the possibility of our entering a war, we are uncertain whether 1) Gabbard is inept in her role in providing accurate intelligence; 2) Trump simply has no confidence in the intelligence provided by his Director of Intelligence, or; 3) Gabbard has not been successful in having Trump pay attention to her intelligence briefings, as has been previously reported by The Economic Times and NBC.

Since the president does not like to read, the director planned to redesign the briefings to emulate Fox News reports with “maps, animations, and even exploding bombs” to keep the president interested. Considering the president returned early from the G7 meeting in Canada, using the Israel-Iran conflict as his excuse (choosing not to confer with our allies over such a consequential issue) and he used rhetoric today that was inflammatory, (indicating that he expects to see Iran’s “unconditional surrender”), the outlook is grim. USA Today reports that the Pentagon is “postured defensively” as more warplanes and an aircraft carrier moved into the region. The US has approximately 40,000 service members in the Middle East. Twenty-one refuelers have been sent from the US to Europe to serve as backup for those already sent to the Middle East in the event that the conflict is protracted. CBS reports that Congress is stepping up to remind the nation of the 1973 War Powers Resolution that blocks US military strikes.

Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky stated on Twitter/X on Tuesday that “Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution.” I applaud Republicans in Congress for taking a stand and asserting their Constitutional responsibility.

Inconsistency/Wavering of Policies in Face of Protest

Representative Fong:

With the immense number of protests across the nation on June 14, 2025, the president may be understanding that his policies are increasingly unpopular with the American people, even though it is likely that no one in his immediate orbit is informing him of this fact. At the military parade held the same day, he uncharacteristically did not stray (which he typically does to criticize his opponents) from the prepared speech that honored the armed forces and the 250^th anniversary of the US Army. The “No Kings” protests focused on opposition to Trump’s takeover and deployment of the CA National Guard to quell protests over the Department of Homeland Security’s extraordinarily harsh immigration policy. Trump did not politicize the parade by donning a MAGA hat either (even though a substantial amount of merchandise was for sale in the vicinity in his usual make-a-buck-off-the-presidency practice).

Surprisingly, the president briefly paused Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from apprehending farm and hospitality workers (which he announced in posts on Truth Social) following these protests and after news media shared footage of farm workers being chased through fields where they were busy harvesting crops. Undocumented workers number 7 million people in agriculture, hospitality, and construction according to the American Immigration Council.

However, according to The Washington Post and The Guardian, the president reversed his decision only four days later while being advised by members of his staff who hold conflicting opinions, namely Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller (who advocates 3,000 daily arrests) and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. The administration insists on the idea that these apprehensions are necessary because the arrested immigrants are violent criminals, although no proof is offered and often no due process is provided for the apprehended.

In addition to the protests, public pushback provided by CA Governor Gavin Newsom in response to the president usurping his legitimate authority over his state was empowering, especially when the president has been consistently unrestrained by Congress (which is SUPPOSED to be a co-equal branch of government and a check on the executive branch). Senator Alex Padilla stood up to Secretary of Homeland Security Noem when she tried to justify the deployment of the National Guard in CA stating falsely, “We are not going away. We are staying here to LIBERATE this city from the SOCIALIST and burdensome leadership that this governor and this mayor have placed on the country.” Senator Padilla’s attempt to question the Secretary as she made this troubling speech was met with disgraceful treatment that is witnessed in police states. No wonder Republican congressmen are in fear of expressing opposing views to the president! The film footage of this treatment of Senator Padilla as he identified himself as a US Senator was utterly appalling.

Americans such as Governor Newsom, Senator Padilla, and the millions of protestors who marched peacefully in the streets showing open opposition to living under such oppressive tactics is the way to preserve democracy. Sadly, the horrific shootings in Minnesota on June 14 of two Democratic members of the state legislature along with their spouses at their residences, two of whom lost their lives in the attack, did not move the president to express dismay to the American people at the use of violence in politics. What was amazing was that despite the danger prior to the arrest of the shooter, and the advisement against protesting nearby by law enforcement, protestors gathered to support the movement and honor their deceased and injured political leaders. With our democratic principles under blatant attack, we must ALL muster the courage to STAND AGAINST TYRANNY.

Week of June 8th

The Boarder

Representative Fong:
Instead of unleashing unimaginable cruelty on our immigrant population by shipping them to unknown locations without warrants, sometimes to prisons when they have simply overstayed their visas and have not committed crimes, and banning immigration from countries selected by Trump’s racist administration, why aren’t we repairing our broken immigration system? Republican Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma spent time during the last administration crafting a bill to secure our southern border that was acceptable by both Democrats and Republicans. However, under the direction of the then former president Donald Trump, the Senate voted to kill the bill. Rather than take action to secure the border, Republicans decided to use the issue as a talking point for the 2024 election. According to reporting by the Associated Press, all but four Republicans voted against moving forward on this legislation, showing loyalty to Trump. An unidentified individual threatened Lankford at the time, saying, “I will do whatever I can to destroy you, because I do not want you to solve this during the presidential election.” Now, ICE dramatically captures undocumented immigrants, as well as those who actually have documents, with threats of deportation and/or detention. For this administration, this show of attempting to remove as many immigrants as possible, often without due process, plays into their campaign promise for expedited removal and they have no desire to solve the problem long-term. PBS reports that despite the Los Angeles protests, Trump is happy to move forward on his mass deportations. He plans to secure billions of dollars from Congress to expand detention and deportation operations in the proposed budget bill. He believes the country will support him in this endeavor. Meanwhile, he is using the situation to test federal overreach of state power. The only emergency that we face is the assault on our nation FROM THE EXECUTIVE BRANCH.

USAID

Representative Fong:

Oxfam has reported on the impact of Trump’s cuts in foreign aid, citing that 95 MILLION PEOPLE worldwide would lose access to basic healthcare, leading to more than 3 million preventable deaths. At least 23 MILLION CHILDREN will lose access to education. The US Agency for International Development (USAID) had a budget of $63 billion in 2023. This was roughly 0.49% of the federal budget. Since 1990, the number of children dying under the age of five dropped by half. In three years from 2020 to 2023, maternal deaths fell by 40%. Closing the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) will leave more than 20 million people, including 500,000 children at risk without adequate HIV treatment and services. Amnesty International states that “The right to seek safety is protected under international law which the United States is bound by.

These abrupt cuts in funding put that right at risk by undermining the humanitarian support and infrastructure that enables people around the world who have been forcibly displaced to access protection, placing already marginalized people in acute danger.” The Washington Post reports that the toll on humanitarian efforts around the world have been dire, even in these first few months.

In South Sudan seven of the 27 health facilities have closed that provide free critical care operated by the nonprofit aid organization Save the Children. Five children with cholera who had to walk for three hours in 100-degree heat to the nearest hospital died because closer clinics had closed. Food aid in Yemen and Afghanistan where people are facing severe hunger crises was terminated because the administration said the food was “benefitting terrorist groups.” More than 700,000 people are losing access to essential humanitarian services.

These cuts were made without warning and without understanding of the many lives that are being impacted and lost. As we are overwhelmed by the daily barrage of assaults from the Trump administration here on our soil, it is easy to lose sight of all the poor people around the world who are suffering from the thoughtless and cruel decisions that he and his administration have made.

Travel Ban

Representative Fong:

According to CBS reporting, Trump banned nationals from Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen from entering the United States starting June 9. He used as justification for the travel ban the attack by an Egyptian national last Sunday in Boulder, Colorado who violently hurled Molotov cocktails at peaceful demonstrators who were supporting Israeli hostages in Gaza. Fifteen people were injured in the attack.

Despite the president’s rationale, Egypt was NOT among the countries who are banned from entering the country. The president also said that these countries either refused to accept the return of their nationals when they are being deported, or they had overstayed their visas. Seven more countries are under partial travel restrictions in which their visa programs have been suspended: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

The travel bans impact primarily African and Asian countries. The Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to revoke temporary legal status of more than 500,000 immigrants that had been granted by the Biden administration, making them liable for deportation. These bans, along with the growing numbers of deportations, the erratic tariff policies, and the HUGE HUMANITARIAN CUTS that have resulted in death and suffering of thousands of people in developing countries serve to worsen geopolitical tensions worldwide. How much destruction does the world have to endure at the hands of this administration?

Ice Raids

Representative Fong:

During the Los Angeles ICE raids in Home Depot parking lots over three days, where immigrants gather looking for work, protestors arrived to respond to the officers. Violence is NEVER acceptable during protests, so law enforcement handled the potentially volatile situations with pepper spray, tear gas, rubber bullets, and arrests.

LAW ENFORCEMENT DID NOT REQUEST FEDERAL ASSISTANCE to manage the protestors. However, the president overreacted, taking charge of and deploying the California National Guard, which is normally the responsibility of the state governor. Both Governor Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass did not think the situation warranted deployment of the National Guard. The president provided rationale for his decision by saying, “No one is going to spit on our police officers.” Ironically, on January 6, 2021, when insurrectionists attacked the US Capitol Building to halt the certification of the 2020 election, beating law enforcement officers relentlessly, the president did NOTHING TO STOP THE ASSAULT and watched it unfold on television! The HYPOCRISY of his statement today was UTTERLY REVOLTING.

Later, when asked about his plans to enact the Insurrection Act in response to the situation (since he has shown a pattern of calling on a variety of imagined national emergencies to justify executive overreach), he responded intimidatingly, yet vaguely, “We are going to have troops everywhere.” Note that individuals protesting the arrest of immigrants, often without warrants or any proof of illegality in violation of federal law, does not qualify as an “insurrection” because these individuals are not attempting to overthrow the existing government, as was the case on January 6, 2021.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth referred to use of the military on US soil from his social media account when he said Camp Pendleton Marines would be available to quell the protests, a violation of the Posse Comitatus Act that prohibits direct involvement of federal troops in law enforcement. Are we now living in a police state, Rep Fong?

Week of June 1st

Big Beautiful Bill

Representative Fong:

Your letter to me today indicated that you support the president’s plan for our future, yet you say the interests of California’s 20^th Congressional District are your top priority. These statements are incongruous.

Supporting a budget bill that extends tax cuts that benefit the wealthiest Americans across the United States, while cutting services for Americans who need the greatest support does not prioritize the majority of your constituents and is far from “leveling the fiscal footing of the American economy.” Long-term projections indicate that federal debt as a percentage of our economy is on a trajectory to grow indefinitely. TAX CUTS initiated during Republican past administrations slashed taxes disproportionately for the wealthy, severely REDUCING FEDERAL REVENUES.

GOVERNMENT SPENDING over these same years has actually DECREASED, but interest on the national deficit grows. Musk’s haphazard cutting of the federal government with ABSOLUTELY NO ANALYSIS has done nothing to get rid of “waste, fraud, and abuse,” but instead has reduced services, ended vital research, violated the privacy of Americans, and provided many avenues for corruption to be injected into our systems. Restoring the system from the damage he caused will actually cost us more than he says he has saved. In the process, Musk was able to get rid of those who were obstacles to his vast government contracts and gain access to vital information for Peter Thiel’s Palantir AI venture.

Ironically, in the end Musk criticized the “big, beautiful bill,” calling it an “abomination” likely because it became abundantly clear (perhaps once he cleared his head from his unfortunate mix of recreational drugs that are clearly contraindicated with his prescribed psychotropic medications) that his cuts of the federal government don’t begin to touch the out-of-control debt that extending tax cuts will create. Musk also realized that government incentives for electric vehicle purchases have been thrown out the window along with any other environmental protections (so, not good news for Tesla).

You, on the other hand, have expressed agreement with the president’s “drill, baby, drill” approach to meeting our energy needs. and therefore, must not recognize the overwhelming evidence of the impact of fossil fuels on the environment. Because you and your fellow Republican members of Congress did not stand up when your power of the purse-strings was being usurped, the damage incurred thus far has been devastating and will take years to recover, if that is even possible. Life is about choices, Representative Fong.

Despite your exceptional education, you have chosen to ALIGN YOURSELF with an authoritarian leader who attempted to overturn the 2020 election, who pardoned the insurrectionists (as well as other enormously corrupt individuals), who is a convicted felon himself, who nominated an inept cabinet for whom you voted to put in charge, who retaliates against his political opponents, who attacks premier institutes of higher learning without just cause, who threatens judges, who adopts irrational economic policies, who undermines the health and safety of our citizens with his failure to adhere to science-based practices, and who rounds up immigrants (some of which are legally here or have been following the procedures required of them) and attempts to deport them to other countries without due process. Then, YOU EXPECT ME TO TRUST THAT YOU ARE MAKING DECISIONS “that reflect both the values of our community and the long-term interests of our nation.” I don’t think so.

Lack of Rational Governance

Representative Fong:

On May 31, 2025, Trump reposted a conspiracy theory that his predecessor Joe Biden had actually been executed in 2020 and that “Biden clones doubles & robotic engineered soulless mindless entities are what you see…” This is the thinking process and message of the PRESIDENT of the United States. You swore an oath to uphold and protect the Constitution from enemies foreign and domestic, not one which supports a leader who is incapable of making sound decisions for the future of our country.

The erratic tariffs which change nearly day-to-day should serve as further evidence of his incompetence, especially considering the damage that they incur on our economy. NBC reported that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard cannot get the president to read or attend to intelligence briefings and is trying to reconfigure them to resemble a Fox News broadcast!

The dire situation in not a Republican or Democratic one, Representative Fong; it is a question of national security for us all. We will ALL suffer as a result of the lack of rational governance and the breakdown of our democratic principles that protect our freedom. Independent Senator Angus King of Maine recently reminded us that seventy-five years ago, McCarthy-era Republican Senator Margaret Chase Smith of Maine put forth a “Declaration of Conscience” in which she encouraged her colleagues to stand for POLITICAL INTEGRITY and recognize that they were supporting totalitarian principles (fear, ignorance, bigotry, and smear) that would destroy the American way of life. Senator King quoted framer of the Constitution James Madison who warned, “The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands…may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny.” He noted that this is exactly what is happening NOW as congressionally established agencies and appropriations are eliminated or withheld, executive orders under the guise of imagined declared emergencies supplant laws, media outlets are threatened, private law firms and universities are intimidated, groups of Americans are targeted for law enforcement without due process, and court orders are ignored.

It is time for Congress to put their FEARS aside and speak up against the attack on the Constitution. Remember that Americans, according to Smith’s Declaration of Conscience have the freedom and right to criticize, hold unpopular beliefs, protest, and engage in independent thought. Members of Congress are not obliged to support the outlandish decisions of the executive branch of government as long as we still have a democracy.

Library of Congress

Representative Fong:

Having already stripped the Republican-led Congress of its power by halting funds that were previously allocated and decimating departments of government that were put in place by Congress, the Trump administration attempted several weeks ago to install Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche (Trump’s former defense attorney) as the acting librarian of the LIBRARY OF CONGRESS.

Trump had just fired the first woman and African American, Carla Hayden, to serve as the librarian of Congress, nine years into her 10-year term. The Library of Congress is the legislative branch’s major research body. In a RARE move, lawmakers refused to accept Mr. Blanche in the role and indicated that control of the institution remains with top career official Robert Newlen, who is considered the acting head. Republicans FINALLY stood firm and said they wanted to maintain their power over the library, even though the president typically nominates its leader.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said Democrats would investigate the firing of Hayden, saying “It’s the Library of Congress, not the library of the executive branch.” Senator Alex Padilla, the leading Democrat on the Rules Committee defended the legislative branch and stated that Newlen continues to be the acting director. Members of Congress are concerned with continued overreach of the executive branch and a hostile takeover by the president. Senator Padilla continued, “…this is not a Democrat versus Republican thing. This is a separation-of-powers, co-equal-branches-of-government discussion.”

Kudos to Minority Leader Jeffries, Senator Padilla, and the Republican members who are standing for their separate branch of government and blocking executive overreach!

Reality Check

Representative Fong:

We are no longer able to gauge how certain Trump policies are affecting Americans. The “Wall Street Journal” reported that economists cannot trust government inflation data. The Bureau of Labor Statistics which provides monthly surveys of employment and costs have cut back on their research because of staffing shortages and a hiring freeze.

They now use much less precise methods for determining price changes. Additionally, the bureau has reduced the number of places where data is collected and has eliminated committees of external experts that were instrumental in improving government statistics. Nevertheless, when Trump met with the German Chancellor Merz in the Oval Office yesterday, he announced that “grocery prices are down.” He did not provide any evidence, as is so often the case. He expects us to believe that he is an expert in many fields and that he always speaks truthfully, despite much evidence to the contrary.

On a different topic, when the conversation centered on the Russian war on Ukraine, Trump likened the serious conflict to “two young children fighting…sometimes you’re better off letting them fight for a while and then pulling them apart.” The president doesn’t seem to realize that unlike a brawl between children, allowing this conflict to continue by not issuing additional sanctions on Russia and providing more support for Ukraine results in thousands of deaths.

The president showed his lack of understanding of the significance of D-Day to honor the invasion of Normandy in 1944 that led to the Allied victory by saying to the chancellor that it was “not a great day” for Germany. Chancellor Merz had to explain, “Well, in the long run, Mr. President, this was the liberation of my country from Nazi dictatorship.” As we shake our heads in disbelief, we must remind ourselves before we cast our votes in the next presidential election to consider just how low the bar for the office of the presidency is under Donald J. Trump.

Law & Order

Representative Fong:

Heather Cox Richardson of Substack posted that political scientist Adam Bonica reported that Trump is losing his battles against courts in 96% of the cases, both from Republican-appointed judges (72.2%) and Democratic-appointed judges (80.4%). More cases are yet to come.

US District Court ruled that fourteen states can proceed with lawsuits against Elon Musk and DOGE. Cases are moving forward on the administration’s targeting of law firms, National Public Radio, and the unlawful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Bonica shares that for nations on a path to authoritarianism, “when courts rule against the leader, the leader and his loyalists attack judges as being biased,” attempting to delegitimize the judicial system.

Trump is pardoning individuals who have been convicted of crimes by our courts and then tries to evade the judicial system by sending people to prisons in third-world countries with no due process. The pardons have been broad from TV reality stars Julie and Todd Chrisley who were convicted of conspiracy to defraud banks of $36 million to Paul Walczak, a nursing home executive who pled guilty to tax crimes for Medicaid fraud. The latter was to serve 18 months and pay $4.4 million in restitution, but his mother donated $1 million to Trump, essentially purchasing the pardon.

Trump falls neatly in this pattern of authoritarian behavior. Silvio Berlusconi of Italy, prosecuted for fraud and tax evasion, called prosecutors and judges “communists.” Turkey’s Erdogan purged 4,000 judges from his highest court. In 2018, Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines removed the chief justice who was defending judicial independence. In 2021, Brazilian Jair Bolsonaro threatened judges who investigated him for corruption. However, in 2023 in Israel, Netanyahu was unsuccessful in destroying the judiciary because people across the country protested and a non-partisan group formed to thwart the authoritarian attempt. Americans must take note!

Elon Musk

Representative Fong:

We should have expected that the relationship between two volatile individuals (who just happen to be responsible for our national well-being) would eventually blow up in dramatic fashion. While the two seriously flawed individuals hurl insults and threats at each other, the real losers in this conflict are the American people. While our eyes are on the conflict between Trump and Musk, many more important issues arise.

With Vought’s breakdown of our government structure outlined in Project 2025, the placement of an inept cabinet, and the wealthiest man in the world responsible for at least 100 government contracts that are crucial for our defense, our democracy is seriously weakened. Musk has no real vested interest in the welfare of the nation, nor an understanding of the systems that govern it. He provided an unprecedented financial contribution to the president’s campaign, as well as the use of his social media company to spread his praise, affecting his win of the election. In return (herein lies the problem of big money in politics), Musk was handed the gift of removing all obstacles to his lucrative government contracts (while simultaneously supporting Vought’s goal), access to information that could be used for who-knows-what nefarious purposes, and a say in who would lead various agencies/departments. He served the president also by acting as an effective buffer, deflecting the anger of the masses for implementing Vought’s plan to dismantle many government departments away from the president.

Musk’s role in DOGE resulted in damage to his business reputation worldwide, a price he must have assumed was worth paying. Now that he has served his purpose, Trump cut this unusual personality (the type of flawed individual –despite his wealth, for whom Trump has very little tolerance) loose. The faction of the Republican party that is more concerned about ending our constitutional democracy than aligning with either of these two individuals will find ways to use the rift to its benefit. Musk’s role as a government contractor in very unique capacities for our country’s defense cannot be easily or safely replaced, giving him a more powerful position than may have been anticipated. In any case, we are left in a precarious situation. And we all continue to suffer from “Trump Derangement Syndrome.”